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Class _P4i^a-jd_a0 

COHflSIGHT DEPOSIT. 



'Y%% 



THE 

SAVING GRACE 

ji Comedy in ^hree Jlcts 



By 

C. HADDON CHAMBERS 



NEW YORK 

BRENTANO'S 

1918 

Price. 50 Cents Net 



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BRENTANO'S 

Fifth Avenue and 27th Street - - New York 



THE 

SAVING GRACE 




THE SAVING GRACE. A 
COMEDY IN THREE ACTS. 
BY C. HADDON CHAMBERS 




BRENTANO'S . NEW YORK 
MCMXIX 



I A 




Copyright, 1918, by Brentano^s. 



For Performing Rights Apply to 

Charles Frohman, Inc, Empire Theatre, New York 

or, 

Messrs, Sanger ^ Jordan, Times Building, New York 



SCHLUETER PRINTING COMPANY 

OCT 30 lyib 

©CLD 50638 , 
... I 



DEDICATED 

TO 

PEPITA 



CHARACTERS AND CAST OF ORIGINAL PRO- 
DUCTION OF THE COMEDY AT THE 
GARRICK THEATRE, LONDON, 
OCTOBER, 1917. 

Mr. Blinn Corbett .... Mr. Charles Hawtrey 
Mr. William Hogg, his manservant .Mr. A. E. George 

Mr. Riple^ Guildford Mr. Noel Coward 

Mrs. Corbett, Blinn^s wife, . . Miss Mary Herrold 
Susan Blaine, Mrs, CorheU's wiece.Miss Emily Brooke 
Mrs. Guildford, Ripley's mother , Miss Ellis Jeffrey 
Ada Parsons, Mrs, Corbett's maid, Miss May Blainey 

Time: The Autumn of 1914. 

Place: Minford, a village near London. 



CAST OF THE PRODUCTION AT THE EMPIRE 

THEATRE, NEW YORK, UNDER CHARLES 

FROHMAN, INC., SEPTEMBER 30, 1918. 

Mr. Blinn Corbett .... Mr. Cyril Maude 
Mrs. Corbett, his wife , Miss Laura Hope Crews 
Susan Blaine, Mrs. Corbett's niece 

Miss Cathleen Nesbitt 
Mrs. Guildford . . Miss Charlotte Granville 
Mr. Ripley Guildford, her son . Mr. Edward Douglas 
Parsons, Mrs, Corbett's maid , Miss Annie Hughes 
Hogg, the Corbetfs butler , Mr. William Devereux 

Period of the Play, The Autumn of 1914. 



THE SAVING GRACE 



ACT I 

Scene. — At a small house in a 'village near London, 
A room which^riginally was a dining-room, but for pres- 
ent purposes is used not only as a dining-room, but as a 
general sitting-room. It is an oak-panelled room in the 
Jacobean style, and although it has seen better days, it 
is in perfectly good taste, and true to its period. On the 
left in the panelling, which need not be more than seven 
feet high, is a brown leather swing-door leading to the 
kitchen. At the back, between Center and Left, are 
double French windows leading to garden. Through 
these windows are seen a brick walk immediately outside, 
then trees, and a wall and the bach cloth beyond suggests 
the open country. 

Center is a door leading to a hall. In the left of the 
hall is a staircase; in the right a wall with a door sup- 
posed to lead into a drawing-room. 

Right, up stage, is a small recessed window opening to 
another part of the garden. Lower down is a large fire- 
place. 

Left, right down, is a writing-table against the wall. 
Higher up, and just below the leather swing-door is a 
Welsh dresser. At back, between French windows and 
door center, is a small old cabinet, which is used as a 
wine and spirit stand. On right side of center door is an 
open bookcase full of books. Hanging on the panelling, 
left of fireplace, is a small mirror. 

The additional furniture of the room consists of a 
small oak folding-table with a center and two leaves. 
This is a very important item in view of the business in 
Act II, It generally stands near the center with the 

9 



10 The Saving Grace Act I 

leaves down and a howl of flowers placed upon it. There 
is a sofa L.C, the R, end of it a little higher up than the 
L. end, A large arm-chair is placed, facing the audience 
R, and near the fireplace. There is a chair at the writing- 
table, and there are in addition four light open-backed 
oaJc chairs, which are used in the dinner scene round the 
opened-out table. At other times, one stands on either 
side of the closed table, one against the wall below the 
fireplace R,, and the remaining one against the wall at 
bach between the door and the wine cupboard. There is 
a small occasional round table up R. between the arm- 
chair and the hoohcase, and near the small window. 

The carpet should be quiet in tone and patternless, and 
in harmony with the frieze above the panelling, and the 
cretonne which covers the sofa and arm-chair, and also 
forms the material for the curtains of both windows. 
There are short lace curtains on all the windows. 

A copper coal-box stands below the fireplace. 

There is a hearth-rug in tone with the decoration of 
the room. 

When the curtain rises, it is late on an autumn after- 
noon. The stage is empty for a few moments, then enter 
Hogg up L, He is a pleasant-looking, medium-sized man 
of thirty-six. He is in his shirt-sleeves, and is wearing 
a butler's apron, and he is carrying a table-cloth and a 
plate-basket, which he places on table C, 

Enter Parsons, She is a neat, smart, and rather deter- 
mined-looking lady's maid of twenty-nine. She wears a 
plain black dress and lawn apron, but no cap. She helps 
Hogg to lay the cloth, 

Hogg. There's a hole in this cloth. 

Parsons. You'll have to cover it up with something. 
There are holes in all of 'em. 

Hogg. You'd think with three women in the 'ouse 

Parsons (during this speech, Hogg begins to lay the 
table), Now^ William^ you know very well all the work 
falls on me. Lady's maid — that's what I am — that's my 



Act I The Saving Grace 11 

true position in life ; but what am I here ? For the past 
seven months when the last crash came, I've been cook^ 
kitchenmaid, house-parlor and chamber maid, and lady's 
maid all rolled into one — yes, and washwoman too, often 
enough. {Parsons goes to Welsh dresser and brings down 
silver salver, with four tablespoons, two salts, two pep- 
pers, which she places on table, ^ 

Hogg. What's the good of grousing? 

Parsons. Fm not grousing! I'm stating facts. 

Hogg. I do my bit, don't I } 

Parsons. You're all right. I never said you weren't. 
And Miss Susan's all right. She helps no end. As for 

Mrs. Corbett (Parsons puts silver salver back on 

Welsh dresser,) 

Hogg. Oh, come off — you know you like her. 

Parsons. I didn't say I didn't. (Coming back R, of 
table,) 

Hogg. She's a good sort. 

Parsons (without enthusiasm). Oh, yes — so is Mr. 
Corbett. They're all good sorts. Who denies it? And 
what about us? 

Hogg. Couple of mugs, I suppose. 

Parsons. Anyway we're good sorts, too, to have 
stuck to them so long. How much do you suppose there's 
on my book against them now? 

Hogg. Small fortune. 

Parsons. Thirty-seven pounds twelve and ninepence. 

Hogg. Real money ! 

Parsons. What about you? 

Hogg. One way and another what the Gov'nor owes 
me'd make a nasty hole in seventy quid. (Hogg goes to 
fire and puts poker in its place,) 

Parsons. Well, I'm fed up. I can't cope with it. 
Life's too short. It's not good enough. No money — no 
credit — I suppose you know the butcher has refused to 
serve us until his book is paid. (Putting plate with bread 
on table,) 

Hogg. I've heard rumors. (Coming down to table,) 



12 The Saving Grace Act I 

Parsons. Called himself^ this morning — a decent re- 
spectable man, but very firm. 

Hogg. A chapelgoer. {Putting napkins in their 
places.) 

Parsons. And teetotaller, which is unusual in a 
butcher. I'd ordered a wing rib for dinner. He was 
sorry, was Mr. Bines, but it couldn't be done. If Mr. 
Corbett would let him have five pounds on account — Oh, 
you know. 

Hogg. Well, what did you do ? 

Parsons. I've ordered a duck from Simpkins, the 
poulterer. (Puts piece of bread on each napkin.) 

Hogg. Has it come yet? 

Parsons. No, but it's sure to be all right. Simpkins 
drinks. 

Hogg (doubtful), 1 don't know. Tradesmen are a 
lot of sheep. Now Bines is gone, look out for a panic. 

Parsons (with a sudden outburst and speaking with 
great determination), William, something's got to hap- 
pen. This can't go on. You and I are going down-hill, 
and if we don't buck up we'll soon find ourselves at the 
bottom. Look at me! When I took this place three 
years ago, I was as smart a lady's maid as there was in 
England. I was in the right set, and went to all the best 
houses. I wouldn't have stayed with the Corbetts a fort- 
night after I found how things were, if it hadn't been 
for you. 

Hogg. That's right; put the blame on me. Just like 
a woman! 

Parsons. Look at you. Why, when I met you down 
at the Duchess's when you were with Lord Blinkfield, 
you were looked upon as the coming man. Those were 
days! Dinner in the housekeeper's room, all of us in 
evening dress, with music and cards to follow. You used 
to play the mandolin too, like a dream. (Crossing to 
below table,) 

Hogg (sitting on the arm of sofa with the expression 



Act I The Saving Grace 13 

of one full of agreeable memories). Quite right. Quito 
right. I was somebody in those days. 

Paiihonh. And niLhcr agreeable to look upon as well. 

IIo(i(i (slrokinf/ his chin, and .sriKxdhinrf his hair with 
a touch of vanity). So it was rumored. 

Pauhons (blushing). Why — I — I was a little bit gon(^ 
on you myself — even then. (Crosses to IIogg> Slight 
pause.) 

Ilocifi {siglmig resignedly). Ah, well ! 

Pahhonh (with sudden vehemence). Yes — you were a 
promising young fellow, and if youM played your eards 
well, you might have been butler in a swell family by 
now and owned a row of houses. 

IIo(iG. I <;ouId do with a bit of l>ri(ks and mortar. 

Pahsons. I should say so. There's some eomfort to 
be got out of property. William, I'm going to get out. 
{Crosses R, C) 

HoocK Now, Parsons (Follows Parsons,) 

Parsons. Oh, I know what you're going to say! — 
"Now, Parsons, be a sport." Well, I tell you J'vc been 
a sport long enough, and it's eost me thirty pounds, whieh 
I'll probably n(;v(;r see tlu; eoh)r of. (Contemptuously.) 
"Be a sport" indexed ! That means go against everything 
that's regular and respeetable, take silly risks, gamble 
witli your life. Not me, William! I'm just eoming to 
my b('St years, and I mean to make the most of them. 

rio(j(i. Your Iroubh;, l^arsons, is you have no faith. 

Pahhonh. I had thirty poijnds' worth, and it's gone. 
{Goes to fire and tidies up hearth.) 

IIo(;(i. Jf you knew anything about business, you'd 
und(;rstand that it only requires one of the Gov'nor's 
HchomvH to eome oft' for us to be rolling in money. 

I'akhonh. I may know nothing about businctss, but I 
have instinets, and my instinets tell me that Mr. Corbett 
knows no more about businc^ss than an unborn babe. Be- 
sides, he's not serious, h(i makes fun of everytliing. I 
believe; he would make* fim if he saw a person drowning. 
(Leaving fire alone and facing him,) 



14 The Saving Grace Act I 

Hogg {smiling). It would depend upon who the per- 
son was. 

Parsons. Anyway he's not a financier. He's a soldier. 

Hogg. Yes, he's a soldier, and a damn good one from 
all I heard when I first joined him. Well, there's a war 
on, and a pretty big one at that ; and, mark my words, 
he'll get back into the Army and get a big job. 

Parsons. Get back ! After his eloping with his Col- 
onel's wife, and the divorce, and the bankruptcy, and 
owing money everywhere ! Why, William, you must be 
crazy! And I used to think you intelligent! 

Hogg. I say, Parsons, you're not a pessimist, are you? 
Not 'arf. {Going to Welsh dresser for sherry glasses, 
taking up bread-plate with him,) 

Parsons. There's no use calling me names. Mr. Cor- 
bett's a nice, well-spoken gentleman, but he's done. He's 
the King of the Has-beens, and you'll be Prime Minister 
if you don't watch out. {Pause,) 

Hogg {gravely). You're fond of Miss Susan, aren't 
you.'* {Coming towards table with sherry glasses,) 

Parsons {irritably). You know very well I am. 
That's why I've stayed so long — that and — and you. 

Hogg. Well, don't you want to help give her her 
chance ? 

Parsons. Chance ! Poor darling, she's never had one, 
and never will while she sticks to the Corbetts. 

Hogg. Well, she's going to have it now. {Putting 
glasses on table,) 

Parsons. How? What do you mean? 

Hogg. Don't you know who's coming for dinner to- 
night? 

Parsons, One of your Blinn's stony-broke pals, I 
suppose. 

Hogg. Stony-broke ! I wish I was as stony-broke as 
Ripley Guildford! 

Parsons {very impressed). Young Mr. Guildford — 
the one we met in Dinard last year ? 

Hogg. That's the party. 



J 



Act I The Saving Grace 15 

Parsons {incredulously) . He's never coming here ! 

Hogg. That's right — call me a liar. 

Parsons. But we never saw him after Dinard. 

Hogg. The ladies met him in town the other day, and 
invited him down to dinner. You can guess why he ac- 
cepted. (Going to her.) 

Parsons (pleased and excited). That's why they've 
been working at their frocks all day. 

Hogg. And w;hy they're so particular about the dinner. 

Parsons (looking through French window). And why 
Miss Susie's picking so many flowers for the table. 

Hogg. That's why — a good-looking young fellow, and 
the only child of a rich mother. 

Parsons (her face suddenly falling). They'll never 

bring it off — not with their accord (Coming down 

below settee,) 

Hogg (with insistence, crossing to her). Give 'em a 
chance, can't you. Let 'em have a run for their money. 
(Coaxingly,) Come now — (slight pause) be a 

Parsons (quickly). Not a sport; that's all over. 

Hogg (his arm round her), I was going to say dar- 
ling. (He is about to kiss her when a knock is heard off. 
Exit Parsons quickly up L, Hogg goes to dresser for 
glasses, which he places on table, whistling a tune, A 
few moments' pause,) 

Enter Parsons, 

Parsons. It's Simpkin's boy with the duck. 

Hogg. Good. 

Parsons. And he won't leave it without the money. 

Hogg (irritably) , There, what did I tell you.'* Bines 
started it, and now the whole village has gone. 

Parsons (holding out her hand). Come on — fork out ! 
(Both below table,) 

Hogg (very cross). What do you mean, fork out.'* 
Fork what out.^* 

Parsons (inexorably). Five and threepence. 

Hogg (crosser still). Five and threepence? Where 
would I get five and threepence? Why, it's a fortune! 



16 The Saving Grace Act I 

One'd think I was a Rothschild. . . . Where's the duck 
now? 

Parsons. Where I put it^ of course. In the oven. 

Hogg (^smiling). Well, that's all right. What's your 
trouble.^ 

Parsons. The boy's waiting for the money. 

Hogg. Well, let him wait. He won't bite you. Make 
him comfortable. Give him that wooden chair with the 
broken hind leg. 

Parsons. Now, William, what's the use of shirking it. 
You know very well if the boy goes back without the 
money or the duck, Simpkins'U be round here in no time, 
probably in drink and ready to give the whole show 
away — then good-bye to Miss Susie's chances. 

Enter Mr. Blinn Corhett, C. He is a good-looking man 
of forty-eight with a well-preserved figure. His clothes 
are old, hut well kept and well fitted. He is in evening 
jacket suit and black tie. He is evidently careful of his 
appearance, and his hair, which is streaked with gray, is 
well brushed. 

Hogg (not seeing Blinn — still irritably). I tell you I 
haven't the money, so there's an end of it. {Hogg crosses 
to fire. Parsons takes a step L.) 

Blinn. End of what.'* (Hogg and Parsons turn and 
face Blinn.) 

Hogg (turning to him). I beg pardon, sir, A little 
difficulty in the kitchen. 

Blinn (above table, C). Tell me about it, Parsons. 

Parsons. I'm sorry, sir, but Simpkins, the poulterer, 
gave his boy orders not to leave the duck unless we paid 
ready money, five and threepence. 

Blinn. Simpkins! Why I shook hands with Simp- 
kins and asked after his wife before a lot of people only 
the day before yesterday. 

Hogg. Tradespeople are very ungrateful, sir. 

Blinn. Where's the duck now? 

Parsons. In the oven, sir. 

Blinn (cheerfully). Well, that's all right. 



Act I The Saving Grace 17 

Parsons. Excuse me, sir, but Simpkins is a very ob- 
jectionable person, and I — I thought there might be rea- 
sons for avoiding any unpleasantness to-night. 

Blii^n (thoughtfully). Humph! Quite right. (Slight 
pause,) Well, Hogg, you'd better pay, I suppose. {Hogg 
looks cross,) 

Parsons (smiling to herself) » That's what I was tell- 
ing him, sir. 

Hogg. I'm very sorry, but I haven't the money, Mr. 
Corbett — really I haven't. The only cash I've got is one 
and ninepence. 

Blinn. One and nine from five and three leaves three 
and six. (Hogg's face falls heavily,) How much have 
you. Parsons.'* 

Parsons (firmly). Nothing, sir. 

Blinn. Oh, you must have counted ! 

Enter Mrs. Corbett (Georgina), R. She is a small 
and pretty woman in the late thirties. She is now dressed 
for the evening, but her bodice isnH yet buttoned up at 
the back, and she has thrown a red silk shawl over her 
shoulders, 

Mrs. Corbett. Everything going all right? 

Blinn. No. Simpkins won't leave the duck with- 
out the money. 

Mrs. Corbett. But he must know he'll be paid — 
some time. ^ 

Blinn. Of course he must know he'll be paid — some 
time. 

Mrs. Corbett. I always disliked that man. He 
drinks. 

Blinn. Good old sport! 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, I suppose Hogg had better pay 
him. 

Hogg (quickly). Excuse me, ma'am 

Blinn. Hogg's only got one and ninepence. 

Mrs. Corbett. Do me up please, Blinn. (She goes 
to him above table and takes the shawl from her shoul- 
ders, Blinn buttons up her bodice at the back.) 



18 The Saving Grace Act I 

Blinn. Simpkins might take it on account. 

Mrs. Corbett. Where's the duck now? 

Parsons. In the oven^ ma'am. 

Mrs. Corbett (cheerfully). Well, that's all right. 

Blinn. Wrong again, my dear. Simpkins is a quar- 
relsome person with a peculiarly loud voice. 

Mrs. Corbett. How horrid! 

Blinn (significantly). And we have a guest, 

Mrs, Corbett. Yes, I know. It's most provoking. 

Blinn. I thought that perhaps you (this insinu- 

atingly as he still buttons her dress. She gives him a 
quick, indignant look over her shoulder. Slight pause.) 

Mrs. Corbett. Parsons, you will find a two-shilling 
piece in my manicure box. 

Parsons. Yes, ma'am! (She is about to go when 
Blinn speaks,) 

Blinn. She'll be lucky if she does. 

Mrs. Corbett (quickly). What do you mean, I left 
one there. 

Blinn (coolly). I didn't. 

Mrs. Corbett (indignantly). You ! 

Blinn (soothingly). I had telegrams to send. 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh! (With resignation,) Well, 
that's that ! 

Blinn. Meanwhile the bird will need basting. (Exit 
Parsons, L. up,) I hope she's stuffed the damned thing. 
There's no good standing there scratching your head, 
Hogg. 

Mrs. Corbett. What do you propose? 

Hogg. I was thinking, ma'am, that perhaps Miss Susan 
would have an idea. 

Mrs. Corbett (brightening up). Ah! (The button- 
ing is finished. She moves away R., from Blinn,) 

Blinn. Or money. (To Mrs. Corbett), I suspect 
Susie of savings. I followed her for two hours the other 
day, to make sure, but she was too fly for me. 

Mrs. Corbett. Hogg — call Miss Susan. 

Hogg. Yes, ma'am, (Exit Hogg by French window). 



Act I The Saving Grace 19 

Mrs. Corbett. Thank heaven^ there is one brainy 
person in the house. {Goes to fire and sits in arm-chair,) 

Blinn. Darling, you flatter me. 

Mrs. Corbett. You — you dear old stupid! I meant 
Susie, of course. She'll find a way out. 

Blinn. Or produce a little *'ready.'* 

Enter Susan by French Window L, She is a beautiful 
and fascinating girl of twenty-three, with a piquant man- 
ner and an irresistible smile. She is dressed for the 
evening and carries a quantity of flowers which she has 
gathered for table decoration. 

Susan. What's the tragedy about Simpkins? 

Blinn. He's gone back on us, darling. Demands cash 
for the duck. 

Susan. Where's his silly old duck now? 

Mrs. Corbett. In the oven, thank heaven. 

Enter Hogg. 

Susan (beaming beautifully on all). Well, that's all 
right, isn't it.'^ 

Blinn {standing close to table). On the contrary, my 
dear. 

Susan. Why? I always thought Simpkins was a 
good sort, 

Blinn (gravely). We've been misinformed, my love. 
From information more recently to hand it would appear 
that he's a contumacious and drunken swine, and a trou- 
ble-maker of the worst description. 

Susan. I'm disappointed in Simpkins. 

Blinn (warmly). I knew you would be, darling. The 
sum demanded is five shillings and threepence. Hogg is 

prepared to contribute one and nine (Hogg groans 

internally, and puts flower bowl on table C. He then 
goes L.) 

Susan. Very generous of him considering there won't 
be much of the duck left when we've done with it. (She 
goes up to mantelpiece with some flowers,) 

Blinn. For the rest, I grieve to tell you there's not 
a cent in the house — at least as far as we know. I said, 



20 The Saving Grace Act I 

darlings as far as we know. {Susan gives him a stony, 
sphinx-like look and crosses L. of table. Mrs. Corbett 
and Hogg are secretly very interested,) Of course^ a 
row before young Guildford would be fatal. Nice^ clean 
young fellow. {Susan arranges flowers in bowl on table 
C. Enter Parsons, L, up.) 

Parsons (aside to Hogg). He's still there, the little 
beast. 

Hogg. What's he doing? 

Parsons. Rubbing the back of his head — I gave him 
that chair. 

Blinn (sweetly to Susan). Of course, darlings if I 
was wrong in thinking you had a few miserable shillings 
saved up — personally I hate money. (Susan stops ar- 
ranging flowers on table, gives Blinn one eloquent look 
and then appears to think hard.) (Half turning to 
his wife.) It's wonderful to watch a great mind at work. 

Susan (suddenly). Parsons! 

Parsons (going to Susan below settee). Yes, Miss 
Susie ! (Susan goes to her. Blinn rather eagerly fol- 
lows. Susan turns to him and waves him back.) 

Susan (smiling). You stand away, Nunkie. This is 
a private matter. 

Blinn (disappointed, walking away). I only thought 
I might help. 

Susan (lowering her voice). At the back of the left- 
hand drawer of my wardrobe under some old petticoats, 
you'll find a black-and-white-striped stocking with twelve 
shillings in the toe. (She sees Blinn still hovering near.) 
Go away, Nunkie! (He does. She lowers her voice.) I 
saved it for gloves. Take enough to pay for that horri- 
ble little duck, and leave the rest. (They have all secretly 
watched this.) 

Parsons (much relieved). Yes, Miss Susie! (Exits 
L. Hogg, looking very pleased, exits L. Mrs. Corbett 
and Blinn are looking anxiously at Susan.) 

Susan (with a glance at them). You needn't stare, 
children. The beastly little boy will be paid. 



Act I The Saving Grace 21 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, thank heaven! that's settled. 
(Crossing to settee and picking up evening paper,^ 

Blinn. Genius ! That's what I call it, genius ! (^Mrs. 
Corbett takes up the evening paper and reads, Susan 
picks up another newspaper from writing table, and sits 
on L. arm of sofa,) Well, so far so good. (He sits in 
arm-chair by fire and goes on talking, not noticing that 
the others are industriously reading,) Thanks to my 
foresight there will be a decent dinner to-night at least. 
What with a nice tin of sardines, Simpkin's duck, and 
some Californian peaches, we shall do ourselves fairly 
well. In regard to wine — I say in regard to wine, there 
I score again, (He glances at the other two for appre- 
ciation, but finds they are absorbed in their reading. He 
raises his voice considerably and crossly,) I said, 
"There I score again." (The other two start and look 
up,) 

Susan (kindly). You always score, Nunkie dear. 

(Blinn turns his questioning, almost threatening gaze 
on Mrs, Corbett,) 

Mrs. Corbett (firmly). Always. 

Blinn. Thank you. (He withdraws his eyes from 
them. They return to their reading,) As you say, there 
I score again. And now, of course, you're dying to know 
how. You shall. You must understand that Berry 
Brothers, T;he celebrated wine merchants of St. James's 
Street, enjoy the added distinction of having served my 
family for a couple of centuries. "Ah, but," you say, 
"they were among the principal creditors of your second 
bankruptcy, and for over two years they've refused to 
give you credit"; to which I reply, "Too true, but what 
about a well-thought-out and carefully executed flank 
movement? What about selling Berry's excellent wine 
on a 10 per cent, commission? And what about sam- 
ples?" (He leans back in triumph. Pause, He looks 
at the two ladies, who still read. He raises his voice, 
crossly.) I said, "What about samples?" (They start 
and look up,) 



22 The Saving Grace Act I 

Susan {vaguely) . Samples. Oh^ yes — -one must have 
samples^ mustn't one^ Aunt Georgie? {She returns to 
her paper J) 

Mrs. Corbett {with false enthusiasm). Samples.^ 
Rather ! I'm all for samples. {She turns the paper over 
and reads J) 

Blinn {sourly). You would be! Agent for Berry 
Brothers ! It's enough to make my old dad sit up and 
laugh in his cozy little grave. Not that he was a laugh- 
ing man, although he must have drunk rivers of Berry's 
port in his day. Dear old father! He was the only 
human being who ever understood me. He hated me so 
cordially that he invariably left a room directly I entered 
it. {Pause, He looks at the others and raises his voice.) 
I was saying that my dear old father 

Mrs. Corbett {amiably). Well, what about the old 
thing? 

Blinn. Put down that paper. 

Mrs. Corbett {with pretended trepidation). There! 
{She puts it down.) I was only looking at the racing 
news. 

Blinn. Susan! {Rising.) 

Susan {innocently). Yes, Uncle Blinn. 

Blinn. Put down that paper. {Crosses C.) 

Susan. Certainly, dear Uncle Blinn. {Does so.) 

Blinn. I suppose you too were reading the racing news. 

Susan. No, I was reading the fashion article. 

Blinn. You're a couple of bally liars — both of you. 

Susan {innocently). We can't both be a couple, Nun- 
kie dear. 

Blinn. Well, whatever it is, that's what you are. 
. . . You were both reading the war news, {He looks 
from one to the other.) Come — own up. 

Susan {in a spirit of humor). Guilty! 

Blinn {to his wife). Georgie? 

Mrs. Corbett {playfully). I decline to answer. 

Blinn. Both guilty! You've been reading the news 
of this wretched war against my express wish. 



Act I The Saving Grace 23 

Susan. What else is there to read? 

Blinn. Why read at all? Why not sit at my feet, 
and coax me into talking to you? 

Susan. I never thought of that. 

Blinn (to Georgie). As for you 

Mrs. Corbett. Well? 

Blinn. I'm not surprised — I'm only hurt — ^hurt some- 
where here. (Touches the neighborhood of his heart,) 

Mrs. Corbett (touched). Oh^ Blinn! (Rises,) 

Blinn. I'm not in the war^ am I? They're doing 
without me, aren't they? And a nice mess they're mak- 
ing of it. And why am I not in it. Tell me that ! 

Mrs. Corbett (sadly), I know — I know. Because 
you ran away with your Colonel's wife. 

Blinn. I wasn't thinking of that. 

Mrs. Corbett (sincerely and with growing emotion). 
But it's true — it's true, it's all my fault, I oughtn't to 
have let you. I ought to have gone on putting up with 
the old brute. (She rises,) I ruined you, Blinn dear, 
but I don't regret it. Of course I'm sorry in one way — 
particularly because it spoiled your career — but we've 
been happy together, haven't we? (She goes after him 
evidently with a view to an embrace — he evades her by 
going round arm-chair by fire. She follows him,) We 
were meant for each other, and we know how to put up 
with each other, because we really love each other, don't 
we? (She still pursues while he evades,) And although 
we're always hard up nowadays, I'd rather live in pov- 
erty with you than in luxury with that old Turk — Blinn, 
will you stop. 

Blinn. Why should I? 

Mrs. Corbett. I want to kiss you. 

Susan. Best let her kiss you, Nunkie. She always 
gets her own way in the end. 

Blinn (resignedly). Oh, very well! (Sits on R, arm 
of sofa. Mrs. Corbett throws her arms around him and 
kisses him.) Save me, Susie ! 



24 The Saving Grace Act I 

Susan (caZmZy). That's enough. Aunt Georgie. Come 
and sit down. 

Mrs. Corbett (^weakly and with resignation). Very 
well, dear. {She is genuinely moved and is dabbing her 
eyes with her handkerchief. She sits with Susan on 
sofa, who administers to her, woman-like. Meanwhile 
Blinn dusts his coat.) 

Blinn. What's the good of making a fuss and cover- 
ing my coat with powder? As Georgie so tersely puts 
it^ I ran away with the Colonel's wife and there's an end 
of it. (Then with sudden aggression.) And why did I 
run away with the Colonel's wife — tell me that? 

Susan. Because you loved each other, of course. 

Blinn. Nothing of the kind. 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh, Blinn ! 

Blinn {to Susan, emphatically). I ran away with 
that overfond and foolish woman because she was un- 
happy with the dear old buck. 

Mrs. Corbett. I should think I was — ^my life was a 
daily martyrdom. But you loved me with all your soul 
— you know you did 

Blinn. Silence, Georgie ! 

Mrs. Corbett {to Susan, dropping her voice). He 
adored me, my dear, worshipped the ground I walked 

on (Then she further drops her voice into whis- 

pered confidences, and she and Susie talk in dumb show, 
taking no notice of Blinn during the following.) 

Blinn {crosses R. During speech he goes to sideboard 
at back and helps himself to a whisky and soda. It was 
the sporting thing to do, and characteristically I did it. 
Whatever faults they may find in me — and I myself am 
conscious of more than one — they can never accuse me of 
not behaving like a sportsman. I'm not sure that the 
act of running away with another man's wife isn't the 
very highest proof of the sporting instinct. True, I owed 
more money than I could pay to the bookmakers, also to 
the money lenders. Many a man would have hung on, 
waiting for something to turn up, and borrowing from 



Act I The Saving Grace 25 

Peter to pay Paul. I certainly tried my dear old father^ 
who was still alive. Language ? The dear old man ! God 
bless him! He didn't employ words — he invented *em. 
And he didn't speak 'em — he kept 'em in his mouth till 
they got red hot, and then hurled 'em at you like hand- 
grenades. {He finishes his drink and puts tumbler on 
mantelpiece,) Well, I did the sporting thing again. I 
went bankrupt. {Pause. The ladies continue to whisper. 
He raises his voice wrathfully.) I said, **I went bank- 
rupt!" 

Mrs. Corbett {soothingly). Nobody said you didn't, 
dear. 

Blinn. Why don't you listen when I talk to you? 
You're fiddling while Rome's burning. 

Mrs. Corbett. We're not fiddling — silly old thing ! 

Susan. I had to give up the violin years ago. 

Blinn. Thank God! 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh, Blinn ! Susan used to play beau- 
tifully. 

Blinn. I'm going to be frank with you two, and when 
I'm frank I'm terrible. We're broke — broke to the wide. 

Mrs. Corbett. But that's an old story, dear. We've 
been broke for years. 

Blinn. If I had been favored with your complete 
attention you'd have noticed that I added the idiom to 
the wide. {Coming below table,) 

Susan {to Mrs. Corbett). Meaning the wide, wide 
world. Auntie dear. 

Blinn. Thank you, Susan. {Slowly and deliber- 
ately,) To vary the formula, there has arisen in our 
precarious lives another in a long series of bitter crises. 
This time the lid is on. In a word, thumbs are down. 
Nobody can say I haven't been a trier — but like many 
another good man I've failed. In the years I've been 
going down to the City, I've never missed an appoint- 
ment — no, not one. The hours and days I've put in at 
the Bodega in Queen Victoria Street 

Susan. But the splendid schemes you had^ Nunkie 



26 The Saving Grace Act I 

dear. That imitation rubber company^ for instance. 
Haven't you a lot of founder's shares? 

Blinn. Any quantity^ but the company was wound up 
last week^ and the promoter is on the high seas. The 
damned stuff wasn't any good. 

Susan (^Zoomz'Zi/). Oh! 

Mrs. Corbett (gloomily). Oh! {Pause, Recovering 
her spirits,) Well^ thank heaven^ there are the Honduras 
railway bonds. You're sure to sell some of them. 

Blinn. If I do I'll be locked up. 

Mrs. Corbett. Why? 

Blinn. Only because there isn't any railway. 

Mrs. Corbett. What's become of it? 

Blinn. It never was. 

Mrs. Corbett (indignantly). Of all the out- 
rageous 

Susan (interrupting) , Well^ surely those new patent 
dog biscuits you have an interest in are all right_, Nunkie ? 
They look good enough for human beings. 

Blinn. They were tried on a dog three days ago ! 

Susan. Oh^ good! 

Blinn. No, bad! (^Slight pause,) The dog died! 
(Tragic pause,) 

Mrs. Corbett (melting). Poor little doggie. 

Blinn (with withering sarcasm). Your feeling, my 
dear, does credit to your heart, but 

Mrs. Corbett (interrupting innocently). What was 
his name? 

Blinn (furiously). How the — (controls himself,) 
How should I know? Probably "Fido." He was a 
suburban dog. (Mrs Corbett can be noted saying to her- 
self ''Poor little Fido/') Susan, I think I have your 
attention, and thank God you have sense. Have I made 
my meaning clear to you? 

Susan. You mean about the thumbs? (As the evening 
draws in the lights are slightly lowered.) 

Blinn. Yes! (She turns her thumbs down with an 
inquiring look on her face.) Exactly! (Turning his 



Act I The Saving Grace 27 

thumbs down,) (Mrs, Corbett wahes from her reverie 
about the dog and looks from one to the other.) 

Susan. But, Nunkie dear, perhaps after all they'll 
take you back in the Army now the war is on 

Blinn {with simple dignity) . They've refused. {He 
walks up C) 

Susan. Oh, then that's an end of it. {Susan and Mrs, 
Corbett look 'very cast down.) 

Blinn. Ans a last hope I thought of General Faber. I 
was with him in South Africa. I wired to him. 

Mrs. Corbett. That's where my two shillings went. 

Blinn {dryly). Part of it. Good old Faber, he's one 
of those strong, silent men who never speak except to be 
rude to somebody. 

Mrs. Corbett, He was never rude to me. I think he 
liked me — but of course he was only a Brigadier in those 
days. {Pause, A double knock is heard — and the tinkle 
of a distant house-bell. The three on the stage look at 
each other — anxious pause, Blinn gently hums an air 
and lightly brushes his coat with the back of his hand, 
with an assumption of indifference. The others both rise. 
There is suspense in the atmosphere.) 

Enter Hogg carrying a small salver. He goes to 
Blinn, 

Hogg. Telegram for you, sir ! 

Blinn {indifferently). Oh, really — er — ^put it there, 
Hogg. {Pointing to table C, Hogg does so, and after a 
doubtful look at Blinn exits.) Where were we, Susan? 

Susan. You were saying you had wired to General 
Faber. 

Blinn. Oh, yes! 

Susan. That is probably his reply. (Crossing to back 
of table and pointing to telegram.) 

Blinn. I shouldn't wonder, by Jove! {Susan and 
Mrs, Corbett exchange glances. The latter is getting 
worked up by Blinn's apparent indifference. Mrs. Cor- 
bett is L., Blinn is C, and Susan is R.) 

Mrs. Corbett {with a sudden outburst). There is 



28 The Saving Grace Act I 

nothing so irritating in all the world as a person who gets 
a telegram and doesn't open it. 

Blinn {brightly). Oh^ are you really interested, 
Georgie? I thought you were still with Fido. {Takes 
up telegram,} 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh, Blinn, aren't you ashamed? 

Blinn {with a sudden outburst of passionate sincerity, 
and throwing telegram on floor,) Ashamed! Ashamed! 
What else can I be when Tm begging my way back, hat 
in hand — trying to crawl in by the area door of the War 
Office. {Takes stage, going up C.) 

Mrs. Corbett {impulsively). Darling, do you think 
I don't know that you're breaking your heart to get 
back? 

Susan {with quick sympathy). Nunkie! Nunkie! 

Blinn {quietly — having by a great effort controlled 
himself). Well — what's the matter? {He comes down,) 

Susan {a little confused). Only that lots of good 
men have made mistakes, and lots have got back. {Susan 
comes to him R,, and Mrs. Corbett comes to him L,) 

Blinn {with great affected cheeriness). Have they? 
Dear old sports ! 

Mrs. Corbett. I was only reading the other day 
about a man 

Blinn {interrupting). Were you, Georgie? ^^' 

Susan. So you see, Nunkie darling {She takes 

his arm affectionately.) 

Blinn. I'm sorry. I must have got out of bed the 
wrong side this morning. No, I couldn't have though, 
for that side is against the wall — ^besides Georgie was 
there — weren't you, old girl? {He pinches her cheek, 
much to her satisfaction,) Now where the deuce is 
that beastly telegram? {Susan picks it up from the 
floor,) 

Susan. Here it is. {She hands it to him. He holds 
it in a position ready to open it, his eyes upon it. The 
two ladies watch him with great anxiety. He looks up 
and catches their eyes. He smiles nervously and says 



Act I The Saving Grace 29 

^'Hallo'* Then he quickly opens it and reads the tele- 
gram. His face is a study,) 

Mrs. Corbett {with tense anxiety). Well? 

Blinn {quietly). I have the General's profound sym- 
pathy. Dear old Gen. ! {Slight pause. He goes over to 
fireplace and throws telegram in fire,) 

Mrs. Corbett {impulsively). Blinn! {She covers 
her face with her hands.) 

Blinn {with an entire change of manner). Well^ 
that's enough about me. {Glances at watch,) By Jove! 
nearly eight ! Turn on the lights Susie, if it hasn't been 
cut off. I had a threatening letter yesterday. {Susan 
turns on the light, and draws the curtains over win- 
dows.) Run and finish titivating yourself, Georgie. 
{Tahes her up stage.) 

Mrs, Corbett {who is very downcast, with great sym- 
pathy). Oh, Blinn ! 

Blinn {to cheer her up). That's all right, old girl. 
{He pats and kisses her hand.) 

Mrs. Corbett {at door C). That beastly old Faber 
used to dine with the Colonel and me in the old days and 
he pretended he liked me, and now I wish I'd poisoned 
him. {Exit, closing door after her.) 

Blinn. So do !• {He opens a cigarette box on side- 
board.) Plenty of cigarettes. {Then rather aggres- 
sively to Susan, who is closing French windows.) Look 
here, Susan, if that damned yoimg fool wants cigars he'd 
better damned well bring them ! 

Susan. I think he smokes cigarettes. 

Blinn. He'd jolly well better. {He sits in arm- 
chair.) Come here, my dear. {She goes to him and sits 
on an arm of his chair.) You love your old Nunkie, don't 
you? {She throws an arm round his neck and gives him 
a hug.) Then listen to my words of wisdom. 

Susan. Don't I always, Nunkie? 

Blinn. Between you and me — you and I — whichever 
it is. 

Susan. You and me. 



30 The Saving Grace Act I 

Blinn. You ought to know — ^between ourselves the 
position is desperate. I need money so badly that I 
feel I could tear it off somebody with my own hands. 
IVe gone straight all my life — ^but now — {mock seri- 
ously) — I feel I'm slipping. 

Susan (taking his humor). I have a slithery feelings 
too. 

Blinn. Don't be deceived in me^ Susan, I'm un- 
scrupulous ! 

Susan. So am I. 

Blinn. I — {he lowers his voice and glances round 
fearfully) — I would rob. 

Susan {in the same spirit). So would I. 

Blinn. It's funny how catching it is. The trouble is, 
like all good things in life, it's come too late. 

Susan. Nonsense, Nunkie, you're quite a young man. 

Blinn. My day is over, my dear. Sometimes in the 
gloom I seem to see long white hands beckoning — ^beckon- 
ing. {Susan puts a hand over his mouth to stop him,) 

Susan {distressed). Stop it, Nunkie! 

Blinn {taking her hand and holding it away). And 
often when alone in the dead of night, I seem to hear 
voices calling — calling 

Susan {rising). Nunkie^ will you please stop talking 
like that.^ 

Blinn {enjoying himself). Harps, too — I always 
loved harp music. There's an old Johnny who sometimes 
plays outside the Bodega 

Susan. If you don't stop, I'll go away. {Pointing to 
door C) 

Blinn {quickly). Very well. Now to business. What 
about this young fellow? {Susan goes to him and kneels 
on the floor at his side L. of chair.) 

Susan. You mean Mr. Guildford? 

Blinn. Yes, what's he like? 

Susan. But, Nunkie dear, you met him last year at 
Dinard. 

Blinn. I was playing a system at baccarat at the time. 



Act I The Saving Grace 31 

Susan. Well, he's — he's notJbad.^ He used to take 
Auntie and me for motor rides. 

Blinn. His own motor? 

Susan. Of course. 

Blinn {pleased). Oh! 

Susan. His mother's very rich and he's the only 
child. 

Blinn. Yes^ I'd forgotten. 

Susan. Their place is only fifteen miles from here. I 
expect he's motoring over. 

Blinn. Good! 

Susan. It'll take him about fifteen minutes. 

Blinn. Good ! He'll break his neck some day. 

Susan, Don't be unkind. 

Blinn. Do you love this young fellow? 

Susan (laughing). Of course not! 

Blinn. Then perhaps you'll tell me why we're spend- 
ing all this good money on him ! 

Susan. For match-making, purposes, of course. He 
may like me. 

Blinn. If the damned little fool doesn't, I'll break 
every bone 

Susan. But he does. 

Blinn (pleased). Oh! 

Susan. At least he did. At Dinard he told me he 
loved me. 

^ Blinn (very pleased). I seem to remember him now 
— nice clean young fellow. 

Susan. He asked me to marry him. 

Blinn (in amazement). He asked you to (Rises 

and crosses L. of table.) Wait a bit, let's get this right. 
You mean to tell me that this nice clean young fellow, 
with his own motor-car, and groaning under his load of 
money — made you an honorable proposition and that 
you actually 

Susan (breaking in). I took it as fun. 

Blinn. Fun! What is there funny about marriage? 



32 The Saving Grace Act I 

Susan. Nothings I suppose — but he was so young. 
(Rises,) 

Blinn. He was of age, wasn't he? 

Susan. Yes, but only a baby. {She rises.) 

Blinn. So much the better. 

Susan. I was only a baby myself. 

Blinn. Nonsense — women are born ten years older 
than men. 

Susan. Besides, things weren't so bad with us in those 
days. {Slyly,) I remember you calculated your interest 
in the imitation India-rubber concern at a hundred thou- 
sand pounds. 

Blinn {savagely). Thank you for reminding me. 
{Goes a little L,) 

Susan {going to him and laying her hand on his arm). 
And you must remember, Nunkie darling, we hadn't then 
made up our minds to be unscrupulous. {Coming to 
Blinn,) 

Blinn {looking down on her and smiling). No more 
we had. {He passes his arm around her neck and they 
sway together affectionately during the following lines,) 
I somehow feel more light-hearted since we did. 

Susan. So do I. 

Blinn. In a kind of way one is uplifted. 

Susan {firmly). Very. 

Blinn {slowly and distinctly, and with mock gravity). 
We will ensnare this young man. 

Susan {in a similar tone). We shall ensnare him. 

Blinn. The altar yawns for him. 

Susan. For him the altar gapes. 

Blinn. And when you are firmly married to him 

Susan. As I intend. 

Blinn. As you intend — any little kindness you can 
show your Aunt Georgie — who after all is your poor 
mother's only sister — I say, any little kindness — 

Susan {interrupting impulsively and throwing both 
arms round him) , Oh, Nimkie dear, don't you know that 
if I have any luck, I'll take care of Aunt Georgie always. 



Act I The Saving Grace ^ 33 

After all youVe done for me I should be a little pig if I 
didn't share any good fortune with you both. 

Blinn (^disengaging himself). Hold hard^ my dear — 
none of that. It's easier to get rid of one's scruples than 
one's pride. For your Aunt Georgie^ yes — for me^ no. 
No, no! I can look after myself. If you marry this 
young fellow, as you intend 

Susan. As I intend. 

Blinn. I shall of course do the right thing, I shall 
give you a wedding present. 

Susan {smiling deprecatingly). Oh, Nunkie! 

Blinn. There reposes in a certain pawnbroker's shop 
just off Regent Street a picture — in fact — an oil-paint- 
ing. It is a portrait of my dear old father. {He listens,) 
Listen! (Slight pause. They both listen.) A motor-car! 

Susan. His motor-car ! 

Blinn. Our motor-car! (He goes up and listens. 
Susan goes to a mirror to see if her hair is becoming. 
Then she arranges a flower in her dress.) Susan! 

Susan. Yes, Nunkie! 

Blinn. Think well what you're doing. Think of sit- 
ting year in and year out, all your life, opposite the same 
human face — a face perhaps that you don't like, (This 
too with mock gravity/.) 

Susan. He hasn't a bad face. 

Blinn. I wasn't thinking of bad faces. I was think- 
ing of dull faces. However, you know best. (Listens,) 
There he is. 

Enter Hogg, C. 

Hogg. Mr. Guildford's in the drawing-room, sir. 

Susan (going to Blinn in a resolute manner and put- 
ting a hand on his arm). Come on. (Hogg remains in 
attendance, secretly grinning.) 

Blinn. No, you go on. I feel shy. (Both their voices 
are slightly lowered.) 

Susan (smiling but impatient). Oh, don't be silly! 

Blinn, Besides, I have to look over those samples. 



34 The Saving Grace Act I 

Susan. Very well. (Goes toward drawing-room door 
alone,) 

Blinn. I say^ Susan (calling her back). 

Susan. Yes.^* 

Blinn. He's in hunting costume. 

Susan (surprized). Who? Mr. Guildford? 

Blinn. No — my dear old father. (Susan makes a 
hit at him, misses him, and then makes a dignified exit to 
drawing-room. Hogg closes door after her.) Where are 
those samples^ Hogg? (Going below sofa.) 

Hogg (opening sideboard). Here^ sir. IVe decanted 
the sherry and port. (He puts out decanters.) 

Blinn. What else is there? 

Hogg. Half a dozen champagne^ sir. 

Blinn (hopefully). Bottles? 

Hogg (firmly), Pints^ sir. 

Blinn (disappointed). Oh! 

Hogg. And there's a sample of old brandy — '63. 

Blinn. Bottle? 

Hogg. Pint^ sir. 

Blinn. Oh! . . . Give me a glass of sherry. (Go- 
ing up to sideboard, Hogg pours wine. Takes wine, 
tastes it critically and smacks his lips.) How old are 
you Hogg? 

Hogg. Thirty-six^ sir. 

Blinn. Good! How long have you been with me? 

Hogg. Eleven years^ sir. 

Blinn. Good! How much do I owe you? 

Hogg. Seventy pounds fifteen and eightpence^ sir. 

Blinn. Good! (He drinks.) Have you ever thought 
of joining up^ Hogg? 

Hogg (slowly). Well — ^no^ sir — not to say seriously. 
But the news is pretty bad to-night. 

Blinn (with sudden violence). I don't care a damn 
what it is; it's not my business. I wasn't consulted. 
(Goes below sofa.) 

Hogg (quietly). No^ sir. (He starts to go.) 



Act I The Saving Grace 35 

Blinn. Empty a couple of pints of champagne into 
one of those glass jugs. It'll look better that way. 

Hogg. Yes^ sir. (^He takes tivo bottles from side- 
hoard. Distant sound of soldiers singing on march can 
he heard. They are marching to ^^Tipperary/' Hogg, 
who was about to exit, stops, ^ 

Blinn. Listen! 

Hogg. That's the lot from Blankwood returning from 
a route march^xsir. {Blinn goes up to window R,, draws 
one of the curtains aside and listens. The sound comes 
nearer and includes the rhythmic tramping of feet, 
Blinn draws himself to his full height and assumes a 
military air. Even Hogg unconsciously becomes martial 
in attitude,) 

Blinn (in a high manner). They can prevent me 
being a soldier^ but^ by God ! they can't prevent me feel- 
ing like one! 

Hogg (with respectful sympathy). No, sir. (He 
hesitates, looking at Blinn, then quietly goes off L, Exit 
Hogg, L, Blinn looks round to make sure Hogg is gone 
and that he is alone; then he takes a crumpled evening 
paper from sofa and starts reading, while the soldiers* 
singing can still be heard as from a great distance.) 

Blinn (he reads aloud). "In all her long history 
England has never faced anything approaching such a 
crisis." (Slight pause while he reads to himself,) ''She 
will need every shilling of her colossal wealth; every 
able-bodied man of her population; every sinew of her 
tremendous latent strength." (He continues reading to 
himself, and is profoundly interested and moved. The 
soldiers^ singing can still be heard, very distant. The 
curtain slowly falls,) 



end op act I 



ACT II 

Same Scene. — A few minutes later. On Welsh 
dresser when curtain rises has been placed butler's tray 
with three sets of four plates, also dish of olives. 

Enter Hogg with final things for table, including sar- 
dines, which he puts on Welsh dresser. He arranges 
decanters and doesn't fail to fortify himself with half a 
glass of sherry. The collar of his coat is turned up at 
the back. 

Enter Parsons. 

Parsons. The duck's ready when you are. 

Hogg. Good. {He puts the empty sherry glass on 
salver Parsons is carrying and takes from it a rack of 
toast which he puts on table.) 

Parsons (puts salver and glass on Welsh dresser). 
Look at your collar. {She turns it down for him,) 

Hogg. Thank you^ Parsons. {Hogg straightens his 
hair, then opens drawing-room door, which he steps 
through, but remains in sight of audience.) Dinner is 
served^ ma'am. {He returns and stands in attendance 
while the others enter.) 

Enter Blinn and Susan, then Ripley Guildford and 
Mrs. Corbett. Susan is on Blinn's arm and Mrs. Cor- 
bett is on Guildford's. The entrance is made in silence 
and with ceremony. 

Guildford is slender, nice-looking, and very much the 
type of young English aviator. He is twenty-four. He 
is in ordinary ^'dinner jacket" clothes. 

Mrs. Corbett, who has finished dressing, looks very 
smart, although her gown is of the fashion of the pre- 
ss 



Act II The Saving Grace 37 

vious year. Her hair is a poem and her manners are 
perfect. They advance to the table. 

Mrs. Corbett (^sweetly'). Will you sit here, Mr. 
Guildford? {She sits,) 

Blinn. Will you sit there, Susan. (Tahle-naphins 
are unrolled and Hogg hustles to his duties. There ensues 
the short nervous silence that generally happens at the 
beginning of dinner, Blinn breaks it,) 

Position at Table. 
MRS. c. 



BLINN. SUSAN. 

■ ■ 

GUILDFORD. 



Blinn (^cheerily, drawing his chair closer to the 
table). Well, well! {Parsons serves out plates for sar- 
dines, Hogg brings olives and puts them in front of 
Susan,) 

Mrs. Corbett. Hasn't it been wonderful weather, 
Mr. Guildford.^ 

Guildford. Absolutely ripping ! 

Mrs. Corbett. Will you have an olive, Mr. Guildford ! 

Guildford {taking one, first offering Susan one). 
Thanks awfully. {He passes the olives to Blinn, who 
takes one,) 

Blinn {to Mrs, Corbett), Are these olives from 
Spain or Italy, my dear? 

Mrs. Corbett {innocently). They came from the 
grocer, dear. 

Blinn {imperturbably). Dear, dear! Well, well! 

Guildford. These big green ones are Spanish. The 
Italian are those little purple blighters. 

Blinn. Ah, yes! — all skin and stones. {Susan, who 
has nibbled at an olive and then put it down, has great 



38 The Saving Grace Act II 

difficulty in keeping from laughing at Blinn's affected 
and humorous manner.) (To Susan with much solici- 
tude,) Why, child, you're eating nothing! 

Susan. I'm not very hungry, thank you, Nunkie. 
(Hogg offers sardines to Mrs. Corbett and then continues 
round,) 

Blinn. Not hungry! Well, well! 

Mrs. Corbett {with much sociahility). You have 
been in Italy, Mr. Guildford.^ {Hogg serves the sar- 
dines,) 

Guildford. Rather. I was there with mother last 
year. {Mrs, Corbett takes a sardine,) Mother's great 
on Italy. {Hogg offers sardines to Guildford, who is too 
busy talking to Mrs, Corbett to notice,) She knows 
where all the best works of art are and has the catalogues 
by heart. I can tell you, when mother starts reading up 
a subject — No, thank you. 

Blinn {interrupting and coming to Hogg's rescue). 
Won't you have a sardine, Guildford? 

Guildford. Oh, yes — ^beg pardon — rather! {He 
helps himself,) 

Blinn {to Guildford), When one is tired of soles 
and salmon the sardine is a pretty good bird. Have an- 
other? They're very small. 

Guildford. Thanks — yes — rather. {Susa^i helps him 
to another sardine, Hogg then hands sardines to Par- 
sons, who exits with them L.) 

Blinn. The sardine, sir, is the skylark of the ocean. 

Mrs. Corbett. Don't be absurd, Blinn. Sardines 
don't sing. 

Blinn. How do we know what pranks the little beg- 
gars get up to in their native element, ... A glass 
of sherry with your fish, Guildford? {The decanter of 
sherry is on the table,) 

Guildford. Thanks awfully — rather. {Guildford 
helps himself to sherry and passes decanter to Blinn,) 

Blinn, This is a sherry. {Tasting the sherry. 



Act II The Saving Grace 39 

Susan drops her table-napkin and stoops to recover it. 
Guildford tries to help her,) 

Guildford. Do let me! {Their heads gently collide.) 

Susan. Oh ! 

Guildford. Ever so sorry! 

Susan. Not at all. {Blinn meanwhile has tasted his 
sherry and is holding the remainder to the light. Susan 
and Guildford recover the table-napkin together. They 
are oblivious to Blinn^s remark. Mrs. Corbett is busy 
with a sardine.) 

Guildford. I didn't hurt you? 

Susan. Not in the least. 

Guildford. Jolly clumsy of me. 

Susan. Oh, no {They are smiling at each other 

in some embarrassment.) 

Blinn {raising his voice). I said, **This is a sherry!" 
{They all start to attention and raise their glasses. They 
drink.) That sherry, sir, comes out of the Royal cellars. 

Guildford. No? By Jove! 

Blinn. Mr. Guildford said, ''No, by Jove!" No 
doubt he means, Yes, by Jove ! 

Guildford. Yes — rather ! 

Blinn. Now, I ask you, Guildford, as a connoisseur 
and a man of the world, isn't that sherry cheap at eighty- 
four shillings a dozen? 

Guildford. I should call it a gift. 

Mrs. Corbett {brightly). Twelve seven's are eighty- 
four. 

Blinn {drily). Thank you, Georgie. I think I could 
put you on to a few dozen of this wine, Guildford. 

Guildford. It's frightfully good of you, Mr. Corbett, 
but I live with mother. 

Blinn {patiently). That must be extremely nice for 
you both. 

Guildford. I don't know what wines she has in the 
cellars. She keeps the keys herself. Good judge too, 
what? {He laughs,) But she gets everything from 
Berry Brothers, in St. James's Street. {Pause,) 



40 The Saving Grace Act II 

Blinn. Really! Dear, dear! How interesting! I 
seem to have heard the name. {Hogg removes the 
plates,) 

Guildford. YouVe never met mother, Mrs. Corbett? 

Mrs. Corbett {kindly). No — but I*m sure she must 
be very nice. 

Guildford. Oh, she's all right so long as you let her 
have her own way. When you don't, you cease to exist. 
I used to buck when I was a kid; now I'm old and wise. 

Blinn. Your estimable mother seems to be a person 
of considerable strength of character. Another glass of 
sherry.^ {He -fills Guildford's glass.) 

Guildford. Yes, thanks, rather! It's always long 
odds on mother. 

Blinn. Sounds like my dear old father. ^x 

Guildford. Was he hot stuff .'^ 

Blinn. Was he? {He makes a gesture of warming 
his hands hy a fire,) 

Guildford {delighted), I get you! So is mother. 

Mrs. Corbett {gravely), I don't think I can let you 
talk like that of your mother. 

Guildford. Oh, mother's all right, and I'm fond of 
her — ^but she needs tackling all the same. 

Mrs. Corbett. I often wish I'd had a son. {Susan 
laughs,) You needn't laugh, Susan, I'm serious. 

Susan. Whatever would you have done with one. 
Auntie } 

Mrs. Corbett {seriously), I should have loved him 
— and — and given him my life. 

Enter Parsons triumphantly, with the duck and two 
vegetable dishes on tray, which she hands to Hogg on 
Welsh dresser. She puts tray against wall by door. 

Blinn. What have you there, Parsons? 

Parsons. Ducks, sit. 

Blinn. Ducks! Well, well! I hope you like duck, 
Guildford? 

Guildford. Yes, thanks, awfully. I had one for 
limch the other day. {The others exchange glances.) 



1 



Act II The Saving Grace 41 



to 



Blinn. You seem to do yourself pretty well. 

Guildford. I'd been flying all the morning and was 
as hungry as a bear. IVe taken up flying — and just be- 
tween ourselves — my game is to join the Flying Corps — 
only mother mustn't know — not until IVe prepared the 
ground — she'd kick ! 

Mrs. Corbett. I should think she would^ and I 
shouldn't blame her. (Hogg serves duck. Parsons hands 
it to Mrs. Corbett and Blinn, then to Guildford and 
Susan. Parsons follows with vegetables.) Land I can 
understand and water I can put up with^ but when you're 
in the air — well^ where are you.^ {She accepts vege- 
tables from Parsons.) 

Guildford {warmly). But, don't you see^ Mrs. Cor- 
bett^ a chap's got to do something, and I was made for 
the air because I'm a feather-weight and a feather-head, 
and I've always had a kind of knack in handling ma- 
chines and motors. 

Susan {to Blinn). Mr. Guildford drives a car better 
than any one I know. {Hogg fills glasses with cham- 
pagne from a carafe.) 

Blinn {drinking). Really now! 

Guildford. I dare say you think me a silly ass, Mrs. 
Corbett, and I'm sure I am — but aviation is going to 
make history in this war. {Parsons is offering him vege- 
tables — he doesn't see.) Why, if you only knew 

Blinn {breaking in). Don't let us talk war, because 
none of us knows anything about it. Oh, have some peas, 
Guildford — out of our own garden. {Mrs. Corbett and 
Susan smile at each other.) 

Guildford. Oh, yes. Thanks. Rather. {Helps him- 
self.) Yours isn't a military family, then? 

Blinn. Only for fourteen generations ; but the fight- 
ing spirit's petered out. I'm a man of peace, myself. 

Mrs. Corbett {suddenly flaming out indignantly and 
with growing emotion). I won't have you say that, 
Blinn! It isn't true and I won't have it! {In her ex- 
citement she stands.) He's no more a man of peace than 



42 The Saving Grace Act II 

I am, Mr. Guildford. He was one of the smartest oflScers 
in the army until — until he retired — and now, of course, 
he's — beyond the age. But in South Africa he used to 
be called * 'fighting Blinn/' and 

Blinn. Ssh! Georgie! 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, if you want me to "Ssh," youll 
stop running yourself down {she is nearly crying) and 
making me think that — that — if it hadn't been for 
me 

Susan {laying a hand on her arm). Uncle Blinn was 
only making fun, dear. 

Mrs. Corbett. I dare say — but I know what's in his 
heart {She wipes her eyes and sits down,) 

Blinn {firmly). Georgie dear, a glass of wine with 
you. 

Mrs. Corbett {recovering a little). Oh, well! 

Blinn {with a sudden inspiration) , No, one moment. 
{He rises, glass in hand.) His Majesty the King! {The 
others immediately rise.) 

Guildford, Susan, and Mrs. Corbett. The King! 
{They all drink in silence, then sit. In this incident Par- 
sons and Hogg conduct themselves appropriately. On 
its conclusion Parsons carries out the remains of the 
ducJc,) 

Blinn. Georgie, dear. {He reaches over to touch her 
glass with his.) My love. {Susan and Guildford hold 
hands till Mrs, Corbett says "Silly old thing,") 

Mrs. Corbett. And mine ! {She drinks and smiles,) 
Silly old thing! {Hogg removes Mrs, Corbett's and 
Blinn's plate, Parsons Guildford's and Susan's,) 

Guildford. Then you were in the Boer war, Mr. Cor- 
bett? 

Blinn {indifferently). Nothing out of the way. 

Mrs. Corbett {eagerly). Yes, and he was mentioned^ 
in dispatches and wounded three times. {Parsons fur- 
nishes fresh plafes,) 

Guildford {with a boy's admiration), I say! By 
Jove! 



Act II The Saving Grace 43 

Blinn (to change the topic). How do you like Cali- 
fornian peaches^ Guildford? 

Guildford. . I don't think I've ever had any^ sir. 

Blinn. No? Dear^ dear! (To Hogg, who is at 
Welsh dresser,) Have you any Californian peaches^ 
Hogg? 

Hogg. These are Californian^ sir. (He raises the 
dish,) 

Blinn. Reaily! Well, well! A coincidence ! (Hogg 
serves peaches successively to Mrs. Corbett and Blinn, 
who both refuse them, Guildford, and Susan,) You'll 
find them sweeter if anything than the English hot-house 
peach, and in color yellow. I believe they send them 
over in some kind of tin. (Susan and Mrs, Corbett 
laugh,) 

Mrs. Corbett (to Blinn, affectionately). What an 
old goose you are ! 

(They all eat peaches.) 

Blinn. Hogg! (Hogg is now offering peaches to 
Susan, after which he puts them on sideboard,) 

Hogg. Yes, sir? 

Blinn. Coffee? (In this connection he appears doubt- 
ful.) 

Hogg (reassuringly). Yes, sir. (Exit Hogg and 
Parsons, taking with them duck and all used plates, etc, 
from Welsh dresser upon butler's tray,) 

Blinn (to Mrs. Corbett), It seems to me, Georgie, 
that you and I might have our coffee in the drawing- 
room. There are some household matters to talk over 
and checks to write. (He pushes back his chair,) 
Guildford will excuse us, I'm sure. (He takes his chair 
R,, and places it below the fireplace against wall,) 

Guildford. Oh, yes, rather. (Rises.) 

Mrs. Corbett (rising, going round table R, to Guild- 
ford) , I hope you don't find us too unconventional, Mr. 
Guildford. 

Guildford. Oh, no, rather not. I'm having a fright- 
fully good time. 



44 The Saving Grace Act II 

Mrs. Corbett (very simply and touching his shoul- 
der). You are a dear boy and I like you. 

Blinn (softly). Well, well. (He goes up and opens 
door for Mrs. Corbett. Guildford, wearing a self-satis- 
fled smile, goes a little R. Exit Mrs, Corbett.) You will 
see that our young friend has everything he wants, 
Susan. 

Susan. Oh, yes, Nunkie — everything. (Ea;it Blinn.) 

Guildford. I say — isn't he a wonder! (He returns 
to table.) 

Susan. Yes. Have some more peaches ? 

Guildford. I will if you will. (He brings his own 
chair round next Susan's.) 

Susan (rising). Of course I will, 

Guildford. Let me 

Susan. No, you sit down. I like it. Give me your 
plate, will you? (She brings dish of peaches from side- 
board.) 

Guildford. They're jolly good. (He sits.) 

Susan. Not bad. Let's finish the dish. (She helps 
him liberally from the dish which she has placed on the 
table.) 

Guildford. I'm game. Here! don't give me all the 
dish ! (stopping her) Fair do's. Halves, you know. 

Susan. All right. (She taJces the rest herself.) 

Guildford. Yes, your uncle's a wonder. You never 
know when he's serious. (They both eat heartily.) 

Susan. Never. 

Guildford. And funny ! By Jove ! 

Susan. Isn't he? 

Guildford. And yet you're frightened to laugh — just 
in case! 

Susan. I know. 

Guildford (using his table-naphin, having finished his 
peaches). Dev'lish good peaches. I must tell mother 
about 'em. 

Susan (wisely). I shouldn't bother. (She pushes her 
plate away.) 



Act II The Saving Grace 45 

Guildford (with a change of tone), I say — you don't 
suppose he saw Die holding your hand ? 

Susan. I don't think so. Why did you.^ 

Guildford. I don't know. Cheeky wasn't it ? 

Susan. Yes. 

Guildford. But there's something about holding 
hands — what is it^ I wonder. 

Susan. I don't know. 

Guildford, ^hey say it's something to do with elec- 
tricity. Do you remember at Dinard I used to steer the 
car with the right hand and hold yours with the left — 
under the rug.^ 

Susan. I've forgotten— except that you were very 
reckless. You used to make Auntie nervous. 

Guildford (enthusiastically). I say, isn't she a 
dear. 

Susan. She's a darling. 

Guildford. Somehow, you're all — in a way dif- 
ferent to other people. 

Susan. I'm sure we are. 

Guildford (with conviction). Much nicer. 

Susan. Oh, much ! 

Guildford. I don't want to grouse, but everything is 
so rigid and formal at home — not a bit happy-go-lucky. 

Susan. Perhaps that's because you're rich. 

Guildford. Well, I dare say that has something to 
do with it. (Lifting her right hand which is lying on 
table.) I say! By Jove! 

Susan. What? 

GviLDFORD (confused). Nothing! (Slight pause, then 
he grins.) Do you feel it? 

Susan. What — your hand? 

Guildford. No — the electricity. 

Susan. Not particularly. 

Guildford. Kind of tingling? 

Susan. No — it's only warm. 

(Enter Hogg with coffee tray. Guildford drops Susan^s 
hand. Susan, after a moment's pause, continues to speak. 



46 The Saving Grace Act II 

very artificially, to cover the interruption Hogg^s preS' 
ence makes,) Warm^ as you say^ for October^ but I 
suppose when you're in the air 

Guildford {breaking in rather confusedly^. Oh, yes, 
rather ! 

Susan. Rather what? 

Guildford {with a baleful glance at Hogg, who is col- 
lecting the dessert plates,) Rather a bore. 

Susan {affecting surprise, but secretly amused^, 
What^ flying? 

Guildford. Flying? Oh^no! {Slight pause,) Fly- 
ing's top-hole! {Hogg serves coffee,) {Guildford and 
Susan each take a cup from Hogg's tray and help them- 
selves to sugar. Hogg goes up to drawing-room door and 
exits. Directly he is gone Guildford makes a snatch to 
recover Susan's hand, Susan evades him,) 

Susan. Careful ! He's coming back. 

Guildford {half crossly), Gh, of course he would! 
{Pause. They both repeatedly and impatiently look at 
the drawing-room door.) 

Enter Hogg. Susan and Guildford raise their cups 
and appear to be solemnly drinking. Hogg glances dis- 
creetly at the young couple, then, concealing a smile, 
walks sedately to the door L, and exits* Meanwhile 
Susan drinks her coffee. After Hogg's exit she rises 
and walks away. Suddenly she begins to laugh.) What's 
the matter? {He rises.) 

Susan. Have you ever been unscrupulous? 

Guildford. Good Heavens^ no! 

Susan {insistently). Never in your life? 

Guildford {relaxing slightly). Oh^ well 

Susan. Ah! {Accusingly,) 

Guildford {bravely), I stole a shilling once — when I 
was a kid. ^ 

Susan. Oh^ how did you feel? 

Guildford. Pretty rotten. 

Susan. Until you put it back. 

Guildford. But I never put it back. 



Act II The Saving Grace 47 

Susan. But you owned up? 

Guildford. Never. (Grins.) It was mother's. 

Susan (disappointed) . Oh ! You're only an amateur, 

Guildford. Can't we sit on the sofa.^ (Going to her. 
She is rearranging the two sofa cushions,) 

Susan. That's what it's for. (She sits and he sits 
beside her. He takes her hand,) 

Guildford. I love talking to you, but you must find 
it dull, because J'm the silliest ass in the world. 

Susan. I begin to doubt you. 

Guildford. You needn't. You remember the time I 
was idiot enough to propose to you at Dinard. 

Susan. What was there specially idiotic about that? 

Guildford. Oh, nothing — because I was frightfully 
gone on you — as I am now — only I was in trouble at the 
time. 

S us AN. In trouble ? 

Guildford. Yes — over a girl — ^but I was trusting to 
mother to get me out of it. 

Susan (talcing her hand away). How did you dare! 

Guildford. The truth is, Susan, that up to the time 
I met you I'd been an awful blighter and had a horrible 
career. I was always getting into scrapes. That's why 
even now when I'm grown up and quite steady, mother's 
always on my track. 

Susan. You must have been a horrid boy. 

Guildford. I was. Knowing you changed me. 

Susan. Of course you're bound to say that. 

Guildford. No. I mean it frightfully. (Simply and 
sincerely,) I adore you, Susan. 

Susan. That's very kind of you, Ripley. 

Guildford. I wasn't really sure of it at Dinard 

Susan. Although you proposed to me. 

Guildford. Yes. But I was still a young blighter 
then. But when I met you again the other day, it came 
over me like a great wave 

Susan. Oh! 

Guildford (staring moodily in front of him). Now 



48 The Saving Grace Act II 

I'm like a man drowned — for, of course^ I can't propose 
to you again after what I've told you. 

Susan (startled). Oh! 

Guildford. Well, can I? 

Susan (reluctantly). Well, no — I suppose not. 

Guildford. I never had any luck. (Puts his hand on 
hers,) 

Susan. Poor Ripley, 

Guildford. And I suppose I'm doomed to buzz 
around until the right fellow comes along — one of those 
clean-living blighters without a past — but with his hair 
brushed back and a long upper lip. 

Susan. That kind of man wouldn't permit you to hold 
my hand. (She lifts his hand from hers and places it on 
his own lap,) 

Guildford. No — danmhim! (Slight pause,) I say, 
Susan — I suppose you wouldn't let me — just once — (He 
advances his face towards her; she draws hers back,) I 
mean — kiss you — just to show me all I've lost — ^to bally 
well rub it in. 

Susan (raising a hand between their faces). Cer- 
tainly not. I couldn't kiss a man I wasn't engaged to; 
and, as you say, you can't propose to me, and I certainly 
can't propose to you. 

Guildford. Susan, isn't there — isn't there any chance 
for me.^ (He falls on his knees,) 

Susan (coyly). There doesn't seem any way of find- 
ing out. 

Guildford. Susan ! Come here. (He pulls her rather 
roughly down to him; they are both kneeling on the floor 
in front of the sofa,) This is frightfully serious. It's 
different to anything else I've ever felt. And I'll tell 
you why. It's because it's grown-up love. All the rest 
was only — Oh, I don't know how to express it — ^but I^ 
tell you I love you altogether — for ever. Will you marry 
me? 

Susan. Yes, Ripley. 

Guildford. Oh, you priceless darling! (They are in 



Act II The Saving Grace 4» 

each other's arms. He suddenly holds her away,) Do 
you love me — really? 

Susan, Yes^ Ripley. (^He again takes her in his 
arms.) 

Enter Blinn. {He looks round and affects to see 
nobody,) 

Blinn. Dear^ dear! Well, well! {Enter Mrs, Cor- 
hett.) 

Mrs. Corbett. Where are they? {She powders her 
face at mirror U,) 

Blinn. Gone, my dear. Vanished into thin air. 
That's the danger of those flying chaps. 

Susan. You'd better be careful what you say about us. 

Blinn. What! Hello! Why, what are you doing on 
the floor when there are a lot of nice, expensive chairs ? 

Guildford {helping Susan to her feet), Susan's 
promised to marry me, Mr, Corbett; isn't she a 
ripper? 

Blinn. Well, I'm damned! 

Mrs, Corbett {going to them). What! You two! 
Not really? How wonderful! How beautiful ! {Tear- 
fully,) But it's really rather upsetting. {She dabs her 
eyes with her handkerchief. Her emotion is quite real,) 
Blinn, dear, aren't they a pair of darlings? Where are 
you ? {She turns. He is quietly avoiding her, foreseeing 
an embrace. She goes after him,) I haven't been so 
moved since you and I After all, Love is the great- 
est thing in life. {He evades her round arm-chair,) 
Blinn! {Impatiently and tearfully,) Will you stop when 
I want to kiss you ? 

Blinn, It's all right, old girl, {He puts his arm 
round her and lays her face against his shoulder. He 
pats her face and kisses her. They whisper together R. 
Susan and Guildford also whisper L, To Mrs, Corbett,) 
Oughtn't you to embrace the young man? I believe it's 
usual. {As she goes, Blinn picks up his champagne glass 
from table and takes it up to sideboard and fills it,) 



50 The Saving Grace Act II 

Mrs. Corbett. Why, of course ! {She crosses to the 
others,) Mr. Guildford 

Susan. His Christian name's Ripley^ Aunt Georgie. 

Mrs. Corbett. Ripley ! What a pretty name ! {She 
rests her hands on the shoulders of Guildford, who is a 
little embarrassed,) Ripley, I liked you when I first met 
you, and I like you even more now. I'm sure you are 
good and true, and that you will make our dear girl 
happy. Love is the greatest thing in all the world, dear 
Ripley — always remember that. Bless you! {She en- 
folds him in a large embrace, Mrs, Corbett, Susan and 
Ripley are now below the sofa L,) 

Enter quietly Hogg and Parsons. They proceed un- 
obtrusively and quietly to clear the table. Blinn comes 
down below table R,, and stands glass in hand waiting 
for an audience, Mrs, Corbett releases Guildford. 

Blinn (clearing his throat and in the manner of one 

beginning a speech). The sentiments which {the 

others take no notice of him,) 

Guildford {unconsciously interrupting). Thank you, 
dear Mrs. Corbett. {Susan brushes powder off Guild- 
ford's coat,) 

Blinn {patiently, and in the manner as before). The 
sentiments which my dear wife 

Susan {unconsciously interrupting and taking Guild- 
ford's arm). Isn't he a dear boy. Auntie.^ 

Mrs. Corbett {warmly). He is absolutely the nicest 
and dearest boy I have ever 

Blinn {breaking in with cold wrath). May I be per- 
mitted to speak in my own house? 

Susan. Ssh, Auntie! Nunkie has something to say. 

Mrs. Corbett {kindly). What is it, Blinn dear.'* 
{Sits in R, corner of sofa. Exit Hogg with tray L,) 

Blinn {coldly and emphatically), I was endeavor- 
ing, under considerable difficulty, to remark {Par- 
sons drops flap of table noisily. There is a tragic pause,) 

Mrs. Corbett and Susan {with gentle reproof). Par- 



sons 



Act II The Saving Grace 51 

Parsons. Sorry^ ma'am. (Blinn stands with his eyes 
closed and wearing the compression of a martyr. He is 
still holding his champagne glass. Meanwhile Hogg re- 
enters and hastens to Parsons' assistance. They lower 
the other flap of the table, leaving a chair on either side 
of the latter; the top chair [Mrs. Corbetfs] is placed by 
Hogg against the back wall and he also places the flower 
howl on the table, and a cigarette ash tray. Then exeunt 
Hogg and Parsons,) 

Blinn (towards the conclusion of the business de- 
scribed, still with his eyes closed.) Are they gone? 
(Slight pause.) 

Susan. Now, Nunkie, dear. (She and Guildford are 
all attention. Mrs. Corbetfs thoughts, however, are evi- 
dently wandering.) 

Blinn. Am I being favored with your attention_, 
Georgie ? 

Mrs. Corbett (^starting to attention). Certainly, 
darling. 

Blinn (shifting his feet to a firmer attitude). The 
sentiments which my dear wife has expressed to dear 
young Guildford cannot have failed to awaken a sympa- 
thetic echo in the hearts of all present. (A slight mur- 
mur of approval from the others.) The sudden and 
quite unexpected engagement of our dear niece to young 
Guildford, whose Christian name I grieve to say has 
already escaped my memory 

Mrs. Corbett (gladly). Ripley. 

Blinn, Thank you, Georgie. Where was I, Susan.'* 

Susan. The engagement of your dear niece to dear 
young Guildford. 

Blinn. Exactly. Reminds us of Shakespeare's beau- 
tiful line to the effect that marriages are made in Heaven. 

Guildford. Hear, hear! (Mrs. Corbett and Susan 
frown him down.) 

Blinn. In carrying out its designs Heaven sometimes 
permits itself to employ human agencies. My dear niece 
will catch my meaning. 



52 The Saving Grace Act II 

Susan. Perfectly, dear Nunkie. 

Blinn. The poet also says that some are born to be 
married, some achieve marriage, and some have marriage 
thrust upon them. However that may be, it is our pleas- 
ant duty to raise our glasses 

Mrs. Corbett (innocently). But I haven't got a 
glass ! 

Blinn (with slight irritation). It isn't necessary that 
you should have, my dear. Don't you understand that I 
am representing the good feeling of us all ? I repeat, it is 
our pleasant duty to raise my glass and drink to the long 
life, the health and prosperity (A prolonged motor- 
siren is heard — one of those things with a crescendo and 
diminuendo. It breaks off Blinn' s speech, Blinn' s glass 
wobbles slightly and a little of his champagne is spilled,) 
(In a lowered voice,) Some one is walking over my 
grave ! 

Guildford (tragically). Mother! (Slight pause. 
Then Guildford runs to window R,, pulls aside the cur- 
tains and looks out,) 

Blinn (testily). What's he mean — '"Mother".^ (He 
hastily drains the glass and puts it on sideboard,) 

Guildford (hoarsely). Yes, the car's stopped at the 
gate ! Mother's getting out. She's followed me. (Dur- 
ing this scene Mrs, Corbett's expression and manner 
show that she doesn't understand why the others should 
be so disturbed,) 

Mrs. Corbett (innocently). Well, why shouldn't 
she? 

Blinn (in a tone of intrigue). The great thing is not 
to be embarrassed. (His incorrigible sense of humor is 
again paramount,) 

Mrs. Corbett (innocently). Why should any one be 
embarrassed.'* 

Guildford. Oh, isn't this like her! (To Blinn,) 1 
only told her I was coming to dine with you, I — I didn't 
mention any one else. 



Act II The Saving Grace 53 

Blinn. Well, it seems fairly clear that you must 
introduce her. 

Susan {crossing Blinn to Ripley), I think it would 
be better if Ripley and I happened to be walking in the 
garden. There's nothing so natural as walking in a 
garden. 

Guildford (gladly, to Blinn). Yes, and that would 
give you and dear Mrs. Corbett a chance of breaking the 
ice. 

Mrs. Corbett (pouting) . You're all perfectly ridicu- 
lous. One would think we were conspirators. (She goes 
over to mirror R.) 

Blinn (not noticing Mrs. Corbett and addressing 
Susan). What I thought was that you and I might be 
walking in the garden, and Georgie and Ripley might be 
playing backgammon 

Mrs. Corbett (over her shoulder as she powders her 
nose). I shan't. I hate backgammon. 

Susan (firmly). Certainly not, Nunkie! It'll look 
much better for you to be with Aunt Georgie. Come on, 
Ripley! (She and Guildford go to French window.) 

Blinn (resignedly). Very well — you execute your 
flank movement, but don't be long about it. (Exeunt 
Susan and Guildford. Enter Hogg with spirit tray, 
which he places on sideboard. These movements are 
practically simultaneous.) Hogg, Mrs. Guildford is 
calling. You will show her in here. 

Hogg. Yes, sir. (Bell is heard. Exit Hogg C.) 

Blinn (listening). There she is. Now when you've 
finished powdering your nose, darling 

Mrs. Corbett (turning from mirror). Well.^ 

Blinn. Come and sit here (indicating chair L. of 
table. She does so. Blinn goes to bookshelves.) 

Mrs. Corbett. But I don't want to sit. 

Blinn. Don't argue, my dear. (He selects a volume 
at random, opens it and places it in her hands.) You 
shall be discovered reading to me. 



54 The Saving Grace Act II 

Mrs. Corbett. But I don't want to read, and I hate 
all this mystery. 

Blinn {soothingly). Everything is being arranged 
for the best. The thing to aim at is a picture of perfect 
domestic felicity. I shall have dozed off here. {He sits 
on sofa and hangs his handkerchief over his eyes,) 

Mrs. Corbett {contemptuously, after glancing at the 
book). Gibbon's "Decline and Fall of the Roman Em- 
pire/' IVe never been able to understand a word 
of it. 

Blinn {raising handkerchief for a moment from his 
face), Read^ darlings read — quite simply and naturally. 
{Slight pause,) 

Mrs. Corbett {begins to read a passage from Gib- 
bon). "Besides their arms^ which the legionaries scarcely 
considered as an encumbrance^ they were laden with their 
kitchen furniture^ the instruments of fortification^ and the 
provisions of many days. Under this weighty which 
would oppress the delicacy of a modern soldier *' 

Enter Hogg, followed by Mrs. Guildford, Mrs. Guild- 
ford is a very great lady indeed, to the point of being 
axve-inspiring. She is about forty-eight and her domi- 
nant expression is one of inflexible resolution. She is 
beautifully dressed, appropriately to her age and position 
and the time of day. 

Hogg {announcing), Mrs. Guildford. {She comes 
down slowly R. of table. Exit Hogg by door L. Mrs, 
Corbett lays down the volume and rises.) 

Mrs. Corbett (coming forward, and in her best man- 
ner). How do you do? {They shake hands,) 

Mrs. Guildford {coldly). Good evening. You are 

{She hesitates,) 

Mrs. Corbett. Mrs. Corbett. 

Mrs. Guildford. Oh^ indeed! My son told me he 
was dining with a Mr, Corbett whom he met at Dinard. 

He didn't mention {Blinn breathes so heavily as to 

almost snore. Mrs, Guildford breaks off and turns,) 

Mrs. Corbett. He didn't mention me.'^ How neglect- 



Act II The Saving Grace 55 



fc> 



ful of him. Blinn ! (Slight pause. Both women look at 
him, Mrs, Corhett raises her voice.) Blinn! 

B LIN isi (affecting to tvahe). Eh? What? Oh! Dear, 
dear! (He rises.) So sorry! 

Mrs. Corbett. Mrs. Guildford — my husband. 

Blinn. How do you do? (They shake hands.) Do 
sit down. (He gives her a chair R, of table. She sits.) 
I really must apologize. My wife was reading to me 
Gibbon's '^Decline and Fall/' and I must have dozed off. 
(Mrs. Corhett gives him an indignant look. Blinn stands 
xvith his hack to the fire, Mrs. Corhett is standing L. of 
tahle.) Dear old Gibbon ! A hardy fellow — but a trifle 
turgid^ don't you think — eh? 

Mrs. Guildford (coldly). On the contrary, Mr. Cor- 
bett, I regard him as a historian of considerable genius. 
However, as it is getting late and I've only called for my 
son — (she looks round) whom, by the way, I fail to 
see 

Mrs. Corbett. The dear boy is in the garden — and 
he is a dear boy. WeVe quite taken him to our hearts, 
haven't we, Blinn? 

Blinn. Nice clean young fellow. 

Mrs. Guildford. I'm glad Ripley has made so favor- 
able an impression, but the truth is that, although he is 
full of amiable qualities, he is rather erratic and irre- 
sponsible, and is apt to get into all sorts of mischief. 

Blinn (with false sympathy). Dear, dear! Well, 
well! 

Mrs. Corbett. You surprise me, Mrs. Guildford. 

Mrs. Guildford. Less than he would surprise you if 
you knew him well. He makes all kinds of queer friend- 
ships 

Blinn. I should judge the young fellow to be full of 
democratic impulses. 

Mrs. Guildford. Extremely so; and it's kind of you 
to put it so nicely, Mr. Corbett. That explains this 
rather unceremonious visit, for which I ouglit to 
apologize. 



56 The Saving Grace Act II 

Mrs. Corbett. Not at all. We're delighted. {Sits 
in chair L, of table,) 

Blinn. Charmed — absolutely charmed! 

Mrs. Guildford. It is a great relief to me to find that 
on this occasion at least my son has made — er — suitable 
friends. {She looks coldly from one to the other,) 

Mrs. Corbett. That is most nice of you. I envy you^ 
Mrs. Guildford. I often wish that I had a 

Blinn {quickly interrupting). May I offer you a 
cigarette? {To Mrs, Guildford,) 

Mrs. Guildford {after a moment's hesitation) . Er — 
thank you. {She accepts a cigarette. He lights a match 
for her. He then lights a cigarette. There is a pause, 
Mrs, Guildford and Blinn are apparently trying to think 
of something to say next, while Mrs, Corbett is in a 
reverie,) 

Mrs. Corbett {more to herself than to them). It must 
be wonderful to have a son — all your own. To see the 
little tot — your own flesh and blood — growing in body 
and mind from babyhood into boyhood^ and from boy- 
hood into 

Blinn {crossing to behind table, interrupting quietly 
hut firmly). My dear, won't you smoke.'* {Offers her 
cigarette,) 

Mrs. Corbett {still rapt). No, thanks. 

Mrs. Guildford. You remind me to apologize for my 
son. It's very rude of him to meander alone in the gar- 
den while 

Mrs. Corbett {interrupting). Oh, he's not alone! 
he's with Susan. 

Mrs, Guildford {quickly), Susan! Your daughter.'^ 

Blinn. My dear wife's niece. 

Mrs. Guildford {with affected interest). Really! 

Mrs. Corbett. The orphaned child of my only sister. 

Mrs. Guildford {in the same tone). Ah, yes! And 
she lives with you ? 

Mrs. Corbett. Yes, and she's such a dear girl. I 
don't know what we should do without her. 



Act II The Saving Grace 57 

Mm. Guildford. Need you? 

Mrs. Corbett {taken aback). Well, I {She 

looks doubtfully at Blinn,) 

Blinn, I wonder you didn't see the young folks in 
the garden. It's a brilliant night. {Going back to fire- 
place.) 

Mrs. Corbett. There's a beautiful moon. 

Mrs. Guildford. An ideal Ripley evening! {She 
smiles sarcastically,) 

Blinn {with apparent innocence). Ripping! 

Mrs. Corbett. Perhaps they were in the shrubbery. 

Mrs. Guildford. If there is a shrubbery, that 
wouldn't surprise me. 

Mrs. Corbett {bridling). Of course there's a shrub- 
bery. If there hadn't been I shouldn't have mentioned 
one. 

Blinn {interrupting suavely). A shrubbery is a place 
where there are shrubs. There is such a place in our 
garden. The fact that my dear wife mentioned a shrub- 
bery is ample proof of its existence. {He says the last 
sentence with gentle emphasis. Pause; then with slightly 
more emphasis) 1 said, *'The fact that my dear wife " 

Mrs. Guildford. Quite so. {Stares in front of her,) 

Mrs. Corbett. Quite so. {Stares in front of her,) 

Blinn {gently and also staring in front of himself). 
Quite so. {Pause.) It's wonderful how often a misun- 
derstanding can be removed by the simplest possible ex- 
planation. {Slight pause — an uncomfortable one,) Well 
now, the existence of the shrubbery having been firmly 
established, one might venture to mention the croquet 
lawn. {Mrs. Guildford looks up at him with the compres- 
sion of one who thinks him ''cracked." He smiles down 
on her blandly.) 

Mrs. Corbett. It's dreadfully neglected. 

Blinn. Neglected, I admit — but this is war-time. 
Such a sporting little course, Mrs. Guildford, and full 
of unexpected qualities. You advance on your ball, hav- 
ing borrowed a mallet from the other player, and you're 



58 



The Saving Grace 



Act II 



just about to give it a terrific swipe^ when it starts to 
roll away all on its own. But perhaps you don't play 
croquet? {During this speech Mrs, Guildford puts down 
her cigarette on ash tray,) 

Mrs. Guildford (firmly), No^ Mr. Corbett^ I don't; 
but if I had a niece^ I would not trust her out on a moon- 
light nighty either in a shrubbery or on a neglected 
croquet lawn^ with my son. 

Blinn (with mild surprise). Really! — as bad as that! 

Mrs. Corbett (warmly), I'd trust Susan anywhere 
with any one! I brought her up myself^ and a girl of 
higher principles, or a stricter sense of what is right and 
dignified 

Blinn (crossing again to back of table, interrupting 
with gentle firmness) . Well now, my dear, is that neces- 
sary in the circumstances? I repeat, "in the circum- 
stances." 

Mrs. Guildford. I am not in the least disposed to 
question the trustworthiness of the young lady, more par- 
ticularly as I haven't the pleasure of her acquaintance. 

Blinn (cutting in sweetly). It is a pleasure which 
shall not be denied you, dear lady. 

Mrs. Guildford (coldly). I am obliged to you. (She 
goes on as if there had been no interruption,) But I 
chance to be well acquainted with my son, and I regret 
the necessity of warning you 

Blinn (interrupting). Wait! wait! One moment! 
Forgive me ! I had intended that dear young Guildford 
should break the happy news to you himself, but as there 
seems a danger of your casting some reflection, quite 
without ill-feeling — mind, quite without ill-feeling — on 
the propriety of his conduct, I feel justified in anticipat- 
ing him. Well, the truth is — (he claps his hands and 
rubs them together, while he smiles broadly) — you'll 
never guess — the truth is, the young people are engageci! 
(Mrs, Guildford sits up and looks first at Blinn, who is 
looking smilingly into vacancy, and then at Mrs. Cor- 
bett.) 



Act II The Saving Grace 59 



fc5 



Mrs. Corbett. Yes^ actually engaged. (She beams 
enthusiastically.) And do you know^ Mrs. Guildford^ 
my husband and I hadn't been out of the room three 
minutes — had we, Blinn? 

Blinn. Certainly not more than five. 

Mrs. Corbett. And when we came back those chil- 
dren were pledged to each other and practically in each 
other's arms, I dare say you'll think me sentimental — 
Blinn always does — but it was so natural, so simple, and 
they looked such dears, that the tears came to my eyes. 
(Mrs. Guildford begins to laugh, a rather dry, hard 
laugh. Mrs. Corbett looks surprised and offended.) 

Blinn. I can see a joke as quickly as most people, 

when it's carefully explained to me — but really 

{Coming down L. of table.) 

Mrs. Guildford. You must forgive me, but if you 
knew Ripley as well as I do, I'm sure you would laugh 
too. This is the third time in the last ten months that 
he has become engaged at a moment's notice. {Effect 
on Mrs. Corbett and Blinn. They exchange glances.) 

Blinn {slowly). Oh, really! {Sits on R. arm of 
sofa.) 

Mrs. Guildford. In the two previous instances it fell 
to me to extricate him from extremely undesirable con- 
nections. 

Blinn. I feel sure you rose to the occasions. 

Mrs. Guildford. What adds to the absurdity of his 
proceedings is that he hasn't a penny of his own in the 
world. He's entirely dependent on me. 

Mrs. Corbett. Poor boy ! Poor dear Ripley ! 

Mrs. Guildford. I have never been accused of being 
niggardly. 

Mrs. Corbett. I was thinking of that poor dear inno- 
cent boy falling into the hands of adventuresses. 

Mrs. Guildford. The persons in question were effec- 
tually dealt with. 

Blinn. For my part I have no doubt of it — not the 
faintest doubt of it. 



60 ' The Saving Grace Act II 

Mas. CoBBETT. Money isn't everything — love counts 
above all. I never had any money in my life, so I can 
speak feelingly. My father, who was a clergyman with 
a very poor living; used to allow us girls two shillings a 
week pocket money. {Blinn becomes uneasy and at finish 
of speech puts his hand on Mrs. Corbetfs shoulder,) 
Certainly my first husband, the Colonel, had money 
enough ; but he seemed always to need it all for himself, 
and when I ran away with Blinn and was divorced 

Blinn. Georgie, dear, you needn't trouble Mrs. Guild- 
ford with ancient history. 

Mrs. Corbett. What does it matter? Everybody 
knows it. 

Blinn. In that case, why rub it in? {He goes to 
sideboard for a drink,) 

Mrs. Guildford {interrupting with secret malice), I 
live so much out of the world and hear nothing. Do go 
on, Mrs. Corbett. You were saying ? 

Mrs. Corbett. IVe forgotten what I was leading 
up to. 

Mrs. Guildford {encouragingly). You abandoned 
the Colonel for your present husband — no doubt with 
sufficient cause. How spirited of you ! 

Mrs. Corbett {simply). I'm certainly not ashamed 
of it. 

Mrs. Guildford {apparently idly). And I think you 
said you brought up your niece 

Mrs. Corbett. Yes. 

Mrs. Guildford. No doubt on the liberal principles 
you yourself had put so romantically into practice. 
{Pause, Mrs, Corbett slowly perceives she is being in- 
sulted. She rises,) 

Mrs. Corbett, What do you mean? 

Mrs. Guildford. Well. {She shrugs her shoulders.) 

Mrs. Corbett {persistently). Well? {Blinn comes 
dozvn,) 

Mrs. Guildford. But all this is rather idle, and I 
really must go. Mr. Corbett {rising and moving to fire- 



Act II The Saving Grace 61 

place), would you be so good as to let my son know- 



Blinn. Certainly^ Mrs, Guildford. {He moves to go, 
then stops). Georgie dear, perhaps you 

Mrs. Corbett (^still indignant and looking at Mrs. 
Guildford). What did you mean by "liberal principles".^ 

Mrs. Guildford. Well, you acknowledged some ex- 
tremely unconventional, not to say irregular proceedings, 
and as you propose that my son should marry your 
niece \ 

Mrs. Corbett. You are mistaken. I 



Blinn (interrupting from back of table between the 
two ladies). The proposition came from young Guild- 
ford. (To Mrs. Corbett,) My dear, will you be so kind 
as to bring the young folks in here presently? I should 
like a few minutes* conversation with Mrs. Guildford 
first. (He takes her towards the French window,) 

Mrs. Corbett (still ruffled). Mrs. Guildford pre- 
sumed to judge me without knowing the facts. (This is 
as much for Mrs. Guildford^s benefit as Blinn*s.) I don't 
think that is very kind of her. 

Blinn (pointedly). Mrs. Guildford hasn't the privi- 
lege of knowing you as well as I do. (He kisses her hand 
very gallantly. She smiles at him, much gratified. Exit 
Mrs. Corbett. Blinn returns to Mrs. Guildford. He is 
smiling genially.) I say, you nearly put your foot in it 
then! 

Mrs. Guildford. I really don't know what you mean. 

Blinn. Well, you were very nearly being rude to the 
best little woman in the world. In fact, you were — just 
a little, weren't you.^ 

Mrs. Guildford (stiffly). I see no reason to recon- 
sider anything I said. 

Blinn. Not yet; not for the moment; but don't be 
discouraged, you will. (Then seriously.) What I want 
you to know is that I entertain a regard and admiration 
for my wife that amounts to something like a worship. 
I am telling you this in confidence. She probably doesn't 
know it. It naturally follows that any one who hurts 



62 The Saving Grace Act II 

her^ hurts me. (Slight pause. Mrs, Guildford is stonily 
silent,) Do have another cigarette! {Offers her the 
box,) 

Mrs. Guildford. No, thank you. 

Blinn {in an oratorical manner and with a touch of 
mockery). Returning for a moment to our domestic his- 
tory, in which you evinced considerable interest just now, 
I must tell you that my wife ran away with me from a 
tyrant and oppressor of the worst description. The good 
old Colonel was, in truth, a horrible fellow. But you 
cannot have failed to notice the liberal tendencies that 
have been spreading over the world in the last quarter 
of a century. Freedom is in the air! My wife was a 
pioneer. History will be aware of her. (Slight pause,) 
Would you let me give you a glass of sherry? 

Mrs. Guildford. No, thank you. {She crosses to L 
below sofa,) 

Blinn. As to the other matter in which we are both 
so interested — I mean the proposed marriage between 
your son and my wife's niece 

Mrs. Guildford {interrupting). Personally I'm not 
interested. The idea is ridiculous and impossible. 

Blinn {serenely). On the contrary, as I shall pro- 
ceed to show you. Of course in a sense we're all wrong. 
We have no right to discuss so sacred a matter in this 
cold-blooded way. What should have happened was that 
your son rushed home to you, told you of his good luck 
and begged you to help him. Then you would have 
called on my wife to-morrow, ingratiated yourself with 
her, and between you managed to win my approval. As 
it is, if we're not careful the whole scheme will be on the 
rocks. 

Mrs. Guildford (sarcastically), I approve of the 
word scheme. ^ 

Blinn. Thank you. I knew you would. And in a 
sense — ^between ourselves — the scheme was my own. 

Mrs. Guildford. I might have guessed it. 

Blinn. I wonder you didn't. It was I who contrived 



Act II The Saving Grace 63 

they should be left alone after dinner, I knew he was 
attracted to her and had talked of marriage at Dinard, 
and I considered them very suitable to each other. He's 
a nice young fellow — a particularly nice young fellow — 
not weighed into the dust with brains perhaps^ but bright 
and willing^ and not without prospects. In a word^ he'll 
do and I like him. As for Susan^ she's simply stunning^ 
she has good looks, charm, a beautiful nature and distinc- 
tion, and what so few women possess — a real sense of 
humor. In a word, they're a highly promising pair and 
well calculated to enrich the Empire with a bunch of 
what my dear wife calls "little tots," to be a glory to 
themselves and add interest and happiness to your and 
our old age. 

Mrs. Guildford. Is your fantastic oration finished, 
Mr. Corbett? 

Blinn. Very nearly. Finally, I am anxious — ^most 
anxious, dear Mrs. Guildford, that you should not be de- 
ceived for a moment in regard to Susan's financial posi- 
tion. She has only twelve shillings in the world — that 
is to say, she had twelve shillings this afternoon, but for 
reasons which need not be stated the sum has since been 
reduced to six and ninepence. 

Mrs. Guildford. I don't know whether I'm to take 
you seriously. 

Blinn. Certainly you are. 

Mrs. Guildford. You seem to me to be a most ex- 
traordinary person. 

Blinn. Please don't mention it. 

Mrs. Guildford. Well, I'll be equally frank. I dis- 
approve of the whole thing and will not lend myself to 
it in any way. I have no belief in Ripley as a married 
man — certainly not before he is thirty at least ; and when 
he marries I hope it will be into a family in which the 
responsibilities of life are not regarded in a spirit of 
levity and derision. 

Blinn. Dear lady — dear kind lady, one only tries to 
prove that it is possible to be poor without being dull. 



64 The Saving Grace Act II 

There is written invisibly over the portals of this modest 
dwelling 

Mrs. Guildford {interrupting firmly), I am not in- 
terested in local inscriptions, and I really should be ex- 
tremely obliged to you if you would kindly let my son 
know that I am waiting for him. 

Blinn (going towards French window). Certainly — 
delighted now that everything's settled so satisfactorily. 

Mrs. Guildford. Oh, then, you agree with me! 

Blinn (near the window — turning to her). Naturally. 
The best way to bind lovers together is to tear them 
asunder. The thing is to make martyrs of them. Let's 
get to work. (Mrs. Guildford for a moment looks a 
little startled, then she shrugs her shoulders and crosses 
over to fireplace,) (Calling through French window.) 
Ripley! Hallo! Ripley! 

Guildford (outside). Hallo! 

Blinn. Come here, there's a good boy. Your mother 
wants you. 

Guildford (outside). Coming. {Blinn steps back up 
slightly. Enter Guildford and Susan. They come on 
quickly to C, hand in hand — Ripley almost dragging 
Susan forward. Enter Mrs. Corbett. Blinn passes his 
arm through hers and takes her up R.C. Guildford ad- 
dresses his mother rather breathlessly). Mother, dear, 
it was awfully ripping of you to come. 

Mrs. Guildford (coldly). I thought it advisable. 

Guildford. You were right because — because now 
you've met dear Mr. and Mrs. Corbett — and this, mother 
— (bringing Susan a little more forward) — this is Susan. 
(Introducing.) Susan — Mother — I mean — Mother-— 
Susan. (Susan comes slightly forward.) 

Mrs. Guildford (stiffly). How do you do? 

Susan (recoiling from Mrs, Guildford's frigid man- 
ner, goes below sofa.) Good evening. (Slight pause.) ^ 

Guildford. Well? 

Mrs. Guildford. Well? 

Guildford. Is that all? (Going to Susan.) Haven't 



Act II The Saving Grace 65 

you heard the news^ mother? Susan has promised to 
marry me. Isn't she a darling ! 

Mrs. Guildford. My dear Ripley, I have heard with 
great regret your singular behavior, but it is not a mat- 
ter suitable for discussion at the moment and in the cir- 
cumstances. You will kindly get your hat and coat and 
drive me home. Jackson can follow in your car. 

Guildford. But, mother 

Mrs. Guildi^ord. Not another word, if you please. 

Guildford {turning appealingly) . Mr. Corbett- 



Blinn. I entirely agree with your dear mother — I'll 
get your hat and coat. 

Mrs. Corbet^. Blinn! 

Susan. Nunkie ! 

Mrs. Corbett. And after drinking their health and 
making that beautiful speech ! 

B-LiNN (turning at door C). Understand me — en- 
tirely. {Exit Blinn, C.) 

Guildford (turning to Susan). You see, darling, 
they're against us — ^but if all the world 

Mrs. Corbett. I'm not against you, Ripley, and I 
don't agree with your mother about this or anything else. 
(She is C. right, up against wall — obviously avoiding 
the neighborhood of Mrs. Guildford.) 

Guildford. Thank you, Mrs. Corbett. As for you, 
mother 

Mrs. Guildford. If you must talk, Ripley, you will 
please select some other subject. (She remains R., near 
fireplace.) 

Guildford. I can't be hushed down now, mother, and 
I won't. (Aside to Susan.) Hold my hand, darling, it 
helps me. (They hold hands.) It must never be for- 
gotten again that I'm thoroughly grown up. To-day, 
new responsibilities have come into my life, and I mean 
to act up to them. 

Mrs. Corbett (to herself). The dear boy! 

Guildford. Of course you've been ripping to me in 
many ways, mother, and I'm very grateful — but I've been 



66 The Saving Grace Act II 

a little slack and allowed you too much liberty ; — I mean 
that^ in a way I've allowed you to think too much for 
me^ and although you're perfectly splendid and all that, 
in future I mean to think more for myself. {He turns 
to Susan,) Underneath it all mother's a good sort — ^top- 
ping — so you mustn't be frightened of her. I'm not. 

Susan (proudly). Nor am I — not in the least. 

Mrs. Guildford. My poor boy, you're making your- 
self supremely ridiculous, and everybody else very self- 
conscious. 

Guildford (serenely), I don't agree with you, mother 
dear. (Susan, who is feeling very uncomfortable, makes 
a slight effort to release her hand,) (Aside to Susan,) 
Don't let go. (Then to Mrs, Guildford.) I'm only lead- 
ing up to this, that Susan and I are engaged to be mar- 
ried and nothing in the world can alter it. 

Mrs. Guildford (icily). I presume you've told the 
young lady of your previous engagements. 

Guildford (shocked, and for a moment disconcerted). 
Mother ! 

Mrs. Guildford. Wouldn't it have been fairer to 
Miss — Miss 

Mrs. Corbett (firmly), Blaine. 

Mrs. Guildford. Thank you — to Miss Blaine. 

Guildford. I — I haven't yet had time. I've not yet 
finished telling her how much I love her — have I, Susan ? 

Susan. No. 

Guildford. I've acknowledged, though, that I have a 
past — haven't I, Susan? 

Susan. Yes. 

Mrs. Guildford. It was your obvious duty to have 
told her that you were sent to Dinard because you en- 
gaged yourself to a curiously undesirable person whom 
you met at a London supper club. 

Guildford. Thank you, mother — you're — you're a 
great help. (Susan struggles to release her hand. Aside 
to her.) Don't let go now, darling — this is a crisis in 
our lives. 



Act II The Saving Grace 67 

Enter Blinn quietly with Guildford's hat and coat. 
He remains up stage with Mrs. Corbett. 

Mrs. Guildford. And that some time after your 
Dinard visit you again became engaged 

Susan (shocked). Again! 

Mrs. Guildford. On that occasion to a young person 
in a sweetstuff shop — Emily Wells. 

Susan (wresting her hand away from Guildford). 
After Dinard !\ After Dinard! (^She backs away from 
Guildford.) 

Mrs. Corbett (much worked up). I think it per- 
fectly shameful that you should drag up that poor boy's 
foolish past. If I had a boy of my own 

Blinn (quietly, laying his hand on her shoulder). 
Georgie darling 

Mrs. Guildford. Needless to say, on both occasions 
I had to come to the rescue. It was not very pleasant, 
particularly in the case of Emily Wells. 

Guildford (turning to Susan). Susan — Susan dear — 
I know I've been a rotter in the past — ^but I swear to 
you 

Susan. I don't want to listen to you — I don't want to 
see you again. 

Mrs. Corbett. Susan ! (She comes a step down.) 

Guildford. You can't mean that, Susan. You told 
me you loved me — in this room — not half an hour ago — 
and again in the garden. 

Susan. It wasn't true — I didn't love you and I don't 
love you. I think you're perfectly horrid, and I hate 
you, I only said "Yes" when you asked me because I 
thought you would be a good match for me. But now 
that I know more about you, and that I'm only the third 
on your list and now — (with a blazing look at Mrs. 
Guildford) — that I've met your — your family — I dislike 
and despise everything connected with you, and — and — 
(only just managing to keep control of her emotion) — 
it's all over between us. (Sits in chair at writing-table.) 

Guildford (dazed). Susan — Susan — Mrs. Corbett! 



68 The Saving Grace Act II 

Mrs. Corbett (dabbing her eyes). I think it per- 
fectly monstrous the way every one treats that poor dear 
boy. 

Mrs. Guildford (ready to go, coming C). Now^ Rip- 
ley, if you please. It's quite unnecessary to prolong this 
extremely painful situation. 

Blinn (coming to Guildford, who stands, quite over- 
come, C). Here's your coat^ little man. You must run 
along with your mother. 

Mrs. Guildford (moving towards French window). 
May we go by the garden? (Guildford crosses R.) 

Blinn. Certainly — certainly. (He goes before her 
to French window,) It's a glorious night — you'll have a 
beautiful drive home. (He stands aside at the windows 
to let her pass.) 

Mrs. Guildford (to Mrs, Corbett). Good night. 
(Then towards Susan,) Good night. I apologize for 
my tiresome boy. (Mrs. Corbett bows slightly, Susan 
takes no notice. Exit Mrs, Guildford,) 

Blinn (guiding Mrs, Guildford with much solicitude). 
There's only one step. That's right. (Exit after Mrs, 
Guildford,) 

Guildford (crossing to R. end of sofa), Susan — 
whatever you may say I — I'd give my life for you. 

Susan (angrily and brokenly). Did you say that to 
Emily Wells .^ 

Guildford (violently). You're a heartless and wicked 
girl ! You're as bad as mother, and I've done with you 
both. (Turns to Mrs, Corbett,) Good night, dear Mrs. 
Corbett. You've been a brick and you're my only friend. 

Mrs. Corbett. Good night, you poor dear maligned 
boy. (She shakes his hand, then wipes her eyes.) 

Guildford. I'll never forget you. (Then he glares 
at Susan's back.) There are others whom I shall forget^ 
as soon as I possibly can. (This very fiercely — he jams 
his hat on. Exit Guildford quickly, Susan drops into L, 
corner of sofa, and buries her face in her hands, Mrs, 
Corbett follows Guildford to French window,) 



Act II The Saving Grace 69 

Mrs. Corbett {walking stage and agitated and indig- 
nant). That poor boy — that poor dear boy, between 
you youVe broken his heart. (^She comes to chair L. 
of table,) I don't understand any of you — my head is 
in a whirl — but as for that woman, if I could have my 
way, she should be boiled in oil. Oh, Susan, how could 
you.^ You know whatever any one may say, I brought 
you up on the best principles, and always to tell the 
truth. I'll never forgive you. (^During this speech she 
gets below table R, Susan sobs audibly, Mrs, Corbett 
rushes to her,) Susan — Susan darling. (She sits on 
sofa beside Susan, and throws her arms around her,) 
What is it? What's the matter, my precious .f^ I didn't 
mean to be horrid. (Kissing Susan's head,) I'd rather 
cut my tongue out than say one unkind word. Come 
closer — put your head there. (Meaning her breast,) You 
poor baby! You know I love you — ^more than any one 
in the world — except Blinn. Of course I love him before 
everything — although I'm so careful not to let him see 
it. Oh, Susan darling, if only you knew what it is to 
love! 

Susan. I — I do ! 

Mrs, Corbett (^delighted), Susan — you do? Ripley! 
Then why ? 

Susan (breaJcing in), I — I lied about it. First I said 
I did when I didn't ; and then I said I didn't when I did. 
That — that was after I had been in the garden with him, 
and — and particularly after his beastly mother came be- 
tween us — and told me about that horrible Emily Wells. 

Mrs. Corbett. But you love him — that's everything 
— that's wonderful! (Enter Blinn by French window, 
unnoticed, comes C, close to table,) There is nothing in 
all the world so beautiful as 

Blinn. What's this — what's all this? 

Mrs. Corbett. She loves him, Blinn — notwithstand- 
ing everything. 

Susan (tearfully and vehemently). I don't love him. 



70 The Saving Grace Act II 

I hate him. If I had known love was like this I'd never 
have had anything to do with it. 

Blinn. Of course she loves him! Hasn't she lost 
him.f* {He smiles broadly,) 

Mrs. Corbett. I think you're too cynical and unkind 
for words. {Blinn continues to smile,) 

Susan (tearfully), I forgive you^ Nunkie^ because 
perhaps you meant well — ^but if you had seen his poor 
little f ace^ all pinched and white about the nose 

Blinn. Thank God I didn't. (Mrs, Corbett and 
Susan talk to each other in agitated whispers during the 
following,) Meanwhile we are face to face with another 
crisis. (He walks stage,) It is one^ however^ with which 
I have already successfully grappled. I must tell you 
that after seeing our guests off in their speedy and ex- 
pensive motor-cars^ I permitted myself a meditative stroll 
to the alleged croquet lawn, and back, during which I 
wrestled with the difficulties which beset us to my entire 
satisfaction. You, Georgie, will take in one or two 
lodgers. As a concession to your ruffled dignity, you may 
describe them as ''Paying guests.'* You, Susan, will seek 
immediate employment in a Government office. In these 
momentous days everybody must do something. The 
good times are over — perhaps never to return. Curiously 
enough, I heard that remark made by three different men 
in the Bodega only last Tuesday — the good times are 
over. (Pause, He sees the women are whispering to- 
gether. He shouts,) I said — "The good times are over." 
(During speech Blinn comes below table, C. The women 
start.) 

Mrs. Corbett. What good times, dear? 

Blinn. I don't believe you've heard one single word 
I said. It's perfectly scandalous that while I pour out 
my store of wisdom and experience, you and Susan 

Enter Hogg, L, 

Hogg. I beg pardon, sir? Did you call? (He 
comes C.) 



Act II The Saving Grace 71 

Blinn. No — yes. What you really want to know is, 
if you may go to bed. 

Hogg (confused). Oh, no — really sir 

Blinn. Well, you may. 

Hogg. Thank you, sir. Anything more, sir ! 

Blinn. Yes — you will call me at seven. 

Hogg. Yes — sir. 

Blinn. I must catch the 8:15 train to London. 

Hogg. Yes, sir. 

Blinn. Sd must you. 

Hogg (a little uneasily). Yes, sir. 

Blinn. I am going to enlist. {Mrs. Corbett and 
Susan clutch each other quickly, but gently.) 

Hogg (with the manner of one who sees what is com- 
ing). Yes, sir. 

Blinn. So are you. 

Hogg (steadying himself). Yes, sir. (Slight pause 
— Blinn crosses to writing-table, switches on reading- 
lamp and sits.) Anything else, sir? 

Blinn (quietly). Yes, you can put out those lights. 
(Hogg goes to door C. and switches off room light. He 
then closes French windows, but does not draw curtains. 
The moonlight is streaming through,) 

Hogg (returning L.). Good night, sir. 

Blinn. Good night, Hogg. 

Hogg. Good night, ma'am. 

Mrs. Corbett (softly). Good night, Hogg. 

Hogg. Good night, Miss Susan. 

Susan (gently). Good night, Hogg. (Ejcit Hogg, L. 
Blinn works at his desk, looking through and arranging 
papers. Slight pause. Then Susan rises, comes down 
very quietly and kisses the top of Blinn's head. He puts 
his hand up and touches her cheek, but doesn't turn. 
Susan goes up, opens door C, and waits for Mrs. Cor- 
bett, who also kisses the top of Blinn's head and is simi- 
larly touched by him on the cheek. Blinn continues to 
work. Mrs. Corbett goes up and whispers to Susan, and 
then takes her in her arms and kisses her. They are in 



72 



The Saving Grace 



Act II 



the light of the hall. Exit Susan softly. She closes the 
door after her. Mrs. Corbett sits in the arm-chair R„ 
out of Blinn's sight. She makes herself very small, as it 
were, and crosses her hands on her lap. There is a 
pause,) 

Blinn (without turning, and speaking in a tone of 
gentle raillery). You needn't be frightened to breathe, 
I know you're there. 

Mrs. Corbett (softly). I know you do. (A slight 
pause.) 

Slow Curtain. 



END OF ACT U. 



ACT III 

Scene. — Same as Acts I and II. It is the following 
afternoon. 

Mrs, Corbett is discovered at the writing-table. She 
has written on two large cards. After a pause she places 
the cards upright on a table, in view of audience and re- 
tires from them to get the effect. On one is written 
''Board and Lodging/' and on the other ''Paying Guests 
Received.'^ 

Enter Parsons by center door. She goes towards pan- 
try door, sees Mrs. Corbett, comes down R. of table. 

Parsons. May I speak to you^ ma'am.'* 

Mrs. Corbett (^abstractedly). Certainly, Parsons. 
What is it.^ 

Parsons (whose face compresses mingled regret and de- 
termination). I'm very sorry, ma'am; but the time has 
come when I have to make a change. (She speaks 
quickly, but with embarrassment. Mrs. Corbett is rather 
preoccupied.) It isn't that I have any complaints to 
make, although no one knows better than you, ma'am, 
that I was engaged as lady's maid, and not as cook-gen- 
eral. It's a matter of principle, ma'am. I'm twenty-nine 
now, and I have my career to think of, and — (Noticing 
that Mrs. Corbett is not very attentive, she follows her 
eyes and sees the cards,) Good gracious! (Her startled 
gaze wanders from the cards to Mrs. Corbett. During 
this speech Parsons gets below table into position to read 
the cards on table.) 

Mrs. Corbett (quietly). What's the matter, Parsons? 

Parsons (in awed tones). Then, it's come to that? 

Mrs. Corbett (gently). Times are rather bad, Par- 
sons. (Mrs. Corbett picks up ^'Paying Guest** card from 
table and takes a step back from table.) 

73 



74 The Saving Grace Act III 

Parsons. But — but — a lady like you ! 

Mrs. Corbett. Better ladies than I have had to do 
harder things. Which of those cards looks best, do you 
think? 

Parsons (hotly). I don't like either of them. 

Mrs. Corbett. Neither do I; although I think this 
one is rather well written^ "Paying Guests Received." 
{She indicates the one with ^'Paying Guests Received" 
on it.) The "P" and "G" are quite good, aren't they? 
Do say they are! 

Parsons. Oh, yes, ma'am, they're beautifully written. 

Mrs. Corbett. I'm so glad you think so. Well, now, 
about the wording. My husband said I might use the 
expression "Paying Guests" {Mrs Corbett sits L. of 
table, replacing card on table) ^ although whether he was 
pulling my — {she corrects herself) — whether he was 
making fun or not I have no idea. In a way, "Paying 
Guests" sounds better than "Board and Lodging," and 
yet somehow it seems like shirking, doesn't it? How 
does it strike you. Parsons? 

Parsons. It's certainly more ladylike, ma'am. 

Mrs. Corbett. Ah, well, that of course decides it. 
{She puts ^^Paying Guests" card in the waste-paper bas- 
ket.) I should hate to be ladylike, and I know my hus- 
band would disapprove. What was it you were telling 
me, Parsons? Something about your age? {Coming 
back from writing-table to L.C.) 

Parsons {embarrassed). I was trying to explain, 
ma'am, that — that I feel that I ought to make a change. 

Mrs. Corbett. What change? 

Parsons. Find another place. 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh ! you want to leave us? 

Parsons. No, ma'am. Please don't put it like that; 
because I like being with you and I'm really devoted to 
the family. But you'll forgive me saying, ma'am^ that ^ 
it's not much of a career for a lady's maid with my expe- 
rience and my references. And it isn't as if — But there 
— I can't say it ! {Going down R.) 



Act III The Saving Grace 75 

Mrs. Corbett (sitting). You can say anything to me. 
Parsons. {Sitting on chair L, of table,) 

Parsons. Well, it isn't as if there was any signs of 
things improving. Unfortunately they*re not; and no- 
body is sorrier than I am. 

Mrs. Corbett. No, I don't think things will improve 
just at present. As my husband says, the good times are 
over, and it wouldn't be fair to expect you to stay on; 
although perhaps, if you had a nice rest at the seaside — 
say a fortnight 

Parsons (a little grimly). On what, ma'am? 

Mrs. Corbett {innocently/). On a holiday. {She 
catches the expression on Parsons^ face, and loohs em- 
barrassed and pained,) Oh, I see! {Rising,) I see! 
Of course ! How stupid of me to forget. There's money 
owing to you. Parsons and 

Parsons {interrupting), I wasn't thinking of any- 
thing unpleasant, ma'am. I assure you I wasn't. 

Mrs. Corbett. I'm sure you weren't. I quite under- 
stand. You musn't think Mr. Corbett is the least to 
blame, Parsons. He had expectations that can't be real- 
ized — particularly now that the war is come. I am en- 
tirely to blame — for everything. I don't wish to explain, 
but I want you to understand that my husband is an 
unusually noble character. 

Parsons. I'm sure of it, ma'am. 

Mrs. Corbett. Now about your wages. I'm afraid 
there's no money in the house, but I think I can manage. 
I still have the bracelet my grandmother gave me on my 
first marriage. My husband refuses to have anything to 
do with it, although it's quite a good one, and ought to 
realize forty pounds. {She goes towards door C Par- 
sons goes up to her,) 

Parsons. Excuse me, ma'am. 

Mrs. Corbett. What's the matter? 

Parsons. I couldn't let you, ma'am — I really couldn't. 
Nothing would induce me. I may have my faults, but 
I'd scorn to be sordid. 



76 The Saving Grace Act III 

Mrs. Corbett (gently). But I insist, Pargons. It's 
only right and honest. 

Parsons {firmly). You'll forgive me, Mrs. Corbett, 
but a lady's maid has her pride, even when she's cook as 
well. 

Mrs. Corbett (resignedly , hut with quiet dignity, as 
she moves away). Then I shall arrange the affair my- 
self. (Coming down and sitting on sofa.) 

Parsons. It isn't necessary, ma'am — truly it isn't. I 
have money in the savings bank. I am quite content to 
wait for what's due to me until better times; and I'm 
sure I can say the same for Mr. Hogg. 

Mrs. Corbett (surprised). Hogg? 

Parsons. Yes, ma'am. Perhaps I oughtn't to men- 
tion it; but we agreed to take the same course — simul- 
taneous. It's not dissatisfaction, ma'am. It's just cold 
sense. And although he's devoted to Mr. Corbett 

Mrs. Corbett. But Hogg has gone to London — ^to 
enlist. (Parsons is petrified. Her face turns ashen. 
Mrs. Corbett notices how shoched Parsons is, and lowers 
her voice sympathetically.) Didn't he tell you? 

Parsons (without moving). No, ma'am. 

Mrs. Corbett. Men don't like to talk of such things 
to us women. 

Parsons (her face hreahing up). That great baby — a 
soldier ! (Suddenly she covers her face with her hands, 
and goes up C, then stops opposite windows, remaining 
up C., her hack to Mrs. Corbett. Mrs. Corbetfs face 
shows that she is much moved. She glances at Par- 
sons. Slight pause. Then she sighs and takes up the 
card ^^Board and Lodging/* and, after a little considera- 
tion, fastens it on the window R,, so that it may he seen 
from without. As Mrs. Corbett turns. Parsons, who has 
wiped her eyes, turns, and she wears a determined and 
stoical expression.) Excuse me, ma'am, but I'd like to 
take back what I said about going away. I'd rather stay 
on, ma'am, if you don't mind. 



Act III The Saving Grace 77 

Mrs. Corbett. Of course I should be delighted — 
but 

Parsons. I'm sure William would wish it. When he 
comes back from the war — ^if he ever comes back — hell 
come to Mr. Corbett. 

Mrs. Corbett. But, Parsons — {Her voice falters a 
little.) My husband may never come back. 

Parsons {looking at her). Well^ I — I suppose that's 
possible, too, toa'am. 

Mrs. Corbett. Quite possible. 

Parsons {with decision). All the more reason we 
should stick it put together. So that's settled. 

Mrs. Corbett. Thank you, Parsons. {Exit Parsons 
by door L, Mrs. Corbett sits at center table on chair L.) 

Enter Susan by C, door. 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, darling, what have you done.'* 

Susan. Everything. I've arranged the rooms for the 
lodgers — the spare room and Nunkie's — and I've aired 
the sheets, and put flowers on the dressing-table. {She 
takes off her large garden hat, puts it on side table by 
window R„ and tidies her hair before the mirror.) And 
I've written to the Admiralty and the Censor applying 
for a clerkship. I'm sure to get one because I didn't 
forget to say that my grandfather was a vicar. {She 
sees the card in the window.) Oh, you've got a card up 
already? {She goes to window and examines it.) Isn't 
it splendid.'* "Board and Lodging." So simple and dig- 
nified! Just like you. Auntie dear ! {Kisses her. Com- 
ing L. of Mrs. Corbett.) 

Mrs. Corbett. Thank you^ darling! I'm glad you 
like it. 

Susan. Well, when I went to post my letters I thought 
I'd better call on the tradespeople and cheer them up a 
bit by telling them about the lodgers, and the Govern- 
ment appointment I'm going to have. You've no idea of 
the success I had. I scattered smiles wherever I went, 
and I'm sure not a soul in the village could dream how 
sore my heart is. {Going L., below sofa.) 



78 The Saving Grace Act III 

Mrs. Corbett. Because of that dear Ripley? 

Susan {suddenly and scornfully). Ripley! Ripley! 
Oh^ I suppose you mean that Guildford youth! Don't 
remind me of him, please. For me^ he simply doesn't 
exist. {She sits on L, end of sofa,) 

Mrs. Corbett (gently), Susie! Susie! 

Susan. It's perfectly true. In the middle of the 
night I tore him out of my heart, just as I once pulled an 
aching tooth out with a piece of string. 

Mrs. Corbett (innocently). You foolish child! You 
should have gone to a dentist. (Susan laughs heartily,) 
What are you laughing at.^ 

Susan. I'm laughing because — because you say such 
funny things^ and you're such a darling! (She becomes 
serious,) No^ Auntie dear^ the person you mention 
doesn't count in the slightest. He's done for himself for 
ever^ and his Amelia Scruggins — or whatever her beastly 
name is — is welcome to him. 

Mrs. Corbett (brightly). I remember her name. It's 
Emily Wells. 

Susan (breaking in, almost violently). Stop, auntie! 
Can't you see I don't want to remember her name — or 
his, either! Why, I-— I shouldn't know him if he came 
into the room at this moment. 

Mrs. Corbett. But, darling, you acknowledged that 
your heart is sore. (She sits on sofa by Susan,) 

Susan. It's sore for the same reason that yours is, 
Auntie. Sore about Nunkie. 

Mrs. Corbett (gently agitated). My dear! What 
can I do ? He asked me not to worry, and I've been try- 
ing not to. But I'm distracted. You know he'll go to 
the front if he has to burrow a tunnel to get there. He 
laughed at my fears — told me he'd be a General in a year. 
But think of Blinn, at his age, in the trenches. . . . And 
the winter will be here presently. I begged him to call 
at the War Office and see General Faber himself. 

Susan (who is very thoughtful). Well? 

Mrs. Corbett. He said — the words are not mine — he 



Act III The Saving Grace 79 

said he'd see the old buck damned first! Not very re- 
spectful^ was it? Besides^ the General is not an old buck. 
He's a very sensible and sympathetic person. 

Susan. Any one can see^ Auntie dear, that he was 
very fond of you ! 

Mrs. Corbett. Fond of me! Certainly not — not in 
that way. (7^ very embarrassed!) 

Susan. Why, Auntie, you're blushing! {She is se- 
cretly amused.) 

Mrs. Corbett {vehemently), I'm doing nothing of 
the sort. Blushing indeed ! An old married woman like 
me. What an idea ! 

Susan. Of course he loved you. What man wouldn't.^ 
You darling! 

Mrs. Corbett, The General never had any such 
thought. He is a very high-minded man. 

Susan. But, Auntie, I've read that even the highest- 
minded men sometimes 

Mrs. Corbett {interrupting with gentle vehemence). 
I insist on explaining. Really you're sometimes as bad 
as Blinn. Please listen to me. {She seizes Susan's arm 
and makes her turn to her,) 

Susan {innocently). Well, Auntie dear.^ 

Mrs. Corbett. Well — well, the Colonel had a habit 
of nagging and bullying me before other people — the 
most vulgar thing to my mind that a man can do. 

Susan. Or a woman, either. 

Mrs. Corbett. Or a woman, either. I quite agree. 
Well, it occurred several times when the General was 
present, and on each occasion he managed to convey to 
me that his sympathies were entirely with me. 

Susan {quietly). How, Auntie? 

Mrs. Corbett {again rather confused). Well — ^gen- 
erally with his eyes. He had a stern mouth, but kind 
eyes — very kind eyes. 

Susan. Any other ways? 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, twice — or was it three times? — 



80 The Saving Grace Act III 

at dinner or luncheon, when the Colonel was particu- 
larly rude, the General laid his hand on mine. 

Susan {with affected anxiety). Not on the table be- 
fore everybody, surely ? 

Mrs. Corbett {quichly). Certainly not! The Gen- 
eral is a most discreet man. 

Susan. Oh ! Then it must have been {She hesi- 
tates.) 

Mrs. Corbett {rather blurting it out). Under the 
table, naturally. 

Susan {vert/ innocently) . Oh, yes. And of course he 
squeezed it. 

Mrs. Corbett {with much vexation, rising and going 
L.C.), Nothing of the kind! What an extremely dis- 
agreeable thing to say! The General only pressed my 
hand gently — like a father. He used to call me his little 
friend. {Susan rises and flings her arms round her.) 
What's the matter ? 

Susan. I suppose if you knew what a darling you are, 
you wouldn't be quite such a darling as you are. {She 
kisses and releases her,) Auntie! The General is ours. 
We must set to work at once. 

Mrs. Corbett. What do you mean? 

Susan. I mean that the telegram Nunkie sent "vas a 
tactical error. You must wire the old boy himself, im- 
mediately. 

Mrs. Corbett {gently agitated). Oh, Susie, I should 
love to ! But I shouldn't dare. Blinn would be furious. 

Susan. Nunkie need never know. It shall be our 
secret. {She goes to writing-table and gets telegraph 
form.) Come and write. {Mrs. Corbett sits L. of table 
C.) Here's a telegraph form. {Hands her one.) 

Mrs. Corbett. What am I to say? 

Susan. Something nice. {Goes to door C. quickly.)^ 
I'll get the money. {Exit Susan.) {Mrs. Corbett finds 
a difficulty in writing^ She is very thoughtful. She 
makes an effort; then after reading the result tears up 
the form and takes another. Suddenly the inspiration 



Act III The Saving Grace 81 

comes and she smiles with satisfaction. She writes 
quickly,) 

Enter Susan, She is carrying a black and white stock- 
ing, from which, unseen by Mrs, Corbett, she takes a 
coin. She rolls up the stocking and puts it in her pocket, 

Susan. Finished? 

Mrs. Corbett (writing). Just! (Hands Susan the 
telegram and anxiously watches the effect,) 

Susan (reading), '^General Faber^ War Office^ Lon- 
don. Fighting Blinn enlisting as Private to-day. Confi- 
dential. Your unhappy little friend^ Georgie Corbett/' 
(She looks at Mrs, Corbett with great admiration,) 

Mrs. Corbett. Well.'^ 

Susan. Perfect^ Auntie^ simply perfect! '*Your un- 
happy little friend" is a stroke of genius. Now I'll get 
it into the post office. (She picks up her hat from table 
in window R,) 

Enter Guildford by French window. 

Guildford (rather timidly). May — ^may I come in? 
(Susan assumes a frozen look, Mrs, Corbett rises, takes 
a step to Ripley, then turns and goes to Susan.) 

Mrs. Corbett. Ripley! The dear boy! (She turns 
quickly to Susan,) Give me the telegram, dear. I'll 
send it myself. Lend me your hat. (Susan holds the 
hat behind her,) 

Susan (lowering her voice). No, Auntie, I'll go. I'd 
much rather. (Goes up R,C, folloxved by Mrs. Corbett, 
who goes C, between Susan and Ripley,) 

Mrs. Corbett (lowering her voice). Certainly not, 
darling. Don't be foolish. You must stay and talk to 
Ripley. (Guildford meanwhile is standing by the French 
window, looking rather foolish,) 

Susan (still retaining the hat). But I don't want to 
talk to him ; and I don't want to be left alone with him. 
Auntie, do be nice! 

Mrs. Corbett. But, darling, he's come all the way to 
see you, and really (Taking telegram from Susan,) 



82 The Saving Grace Act III 

Susan. He's much more likely to have come to see 
you. 

Mrs, Corbett {turning and raising her voice). You've 
called to see Susan, haven't you, Ripley? 

Guildford. I — (^very embarrassed) — I don't know, 
Mrs. Corbett. 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, I do. 

Susan {severely) . Mr. Guildford and I have nothing 
to say to each other. 

Mrs. Corbett {for her quite sharply). Susan! 

Susan. Yes, Auntie.'* 

Mrs. Corbett {zmth great dignity), I would have 
you remember that I brought you up to behave properly 
on all occasions. The hat, please. {Susan hands it to 
her,) And the money for the telegram. {Susan hands 
it to her and then drops down above chair R. of table. 
She then goes to door C,^ glances from Susan to Ripley, 
and says in her best manner,) I hope you will excuse 
me for a few minutes, Ripley. {Still very dignified, she 
again looks from Susan to Guildford,) When I was a 
child we used to sing a little song. {Susan moves with 
a touch of impatience to arm-chair by fire,) Don't fidget, 
Susan, I'm not going to sing. The first line was ''Kind 
words can never die." The other lines were the same. 
{Exit Mrs, Corbett by door C) 

Susan {with frigid politeness). Do sit down, Mr. 
Guildford. Auntie won't be long. {She goes to writing- 
table, picking up block of telegraph forms from table C, 
on her way,) 

Guildford {insinuatingly, and with a view to pro- 
pitiation). Isn't she a little brick? {Coming down to 
back of sofa,) 

Susan. My aunt has a beautiful nature, and I hope 
you won't mind my working. I have important letters 
to write. {She affects great industry,) 

Guildford. Oh, not at all! {He sits on chair L, of 
table. There is a pause. He is very uncomfortable while 
she writes — or pretends to.) It's a beautiful day ! 



Act III The Saving Grace 83 

Susan (without looking up). Beautiful! 

Guildford. Warm, for the autumn. {Fans himself 
with his hat.) 

Susan (writing,) Very. (Slight pause.) If you find 
it close in here, perhaps you'd rather wait in the garden, 
Mr. Guildford. 

Guildford (jumping up, suddenly furious). Don't 
call me Mr. Guildford! Do you hear.^ I won't have it! 
If you call me Mr. Guildford again, I'll run through 
that door (meaning the French window) and I shan't 
stop running until I fall down. 

Susan (affecting to he very shocked)* Really, Mr. — 
Really! 

Guildford (modifying his tone, hut with determina- 
tion.) Yes, really ! (Slight pause,) 

Susan (with a bright thought). When Auntie comes 
back she'll give you a cup of tea. There's nothing so 
good for a headache as a cup of tea. 

Guildford (with dignity). I haven't got a headache. 
(Guildford goes above table,) 

Susan (quietly), No? 

Guildford. No. (Takes another step towards win- 
dow R., then turns and finishes speech.) I was never 
better in my life. 

Susan (indifferently, while continuing to write). No? 

Guildford. No. (Taking another step towards 
window R,, he observes and goes up to and looks at the 
card in the window. He gets an idea, and smiles to 
himself,) You look upon me as an intruder? (Coming 
to back of chair L. of table.) 

Susan (writing). Not at all, Mr. — (She pulls her- 
self up,) Not at all. 

Guildford. Anyway, you want me to think you do. 
But I'm not. As a matter of fact, I called in — in regard 
to the lodgings. 

Susan (with slight interest). Oh, you could recom- 
mend somebody? 

Guildford. I want them for mvself. 



84 The Saving Grace Act III 

Susan (a little startled). For yourself? {Slight 
pause,) I — I don't think my aunt 

Guildford {breaking in complaisantly) . Therell be 
no difficulty — your aunt likes me. {Crossing below 
sofa,) 

Susan. Aunt Georgie is very fond of children. 

Guildford {with a momentary return of temper,) 
I'm not a child. {With a great effort he pulls himself up. 
Looking over her shoulder he sees what she is doing,) 
Perhaps you could spare a moment from drawing cari- 
catures of me to show me the rooms? {Susan shocked 
and angry that he has discovered her, slips the paper 
under the blotting-pad, then goes to fireplace and 
touches electric belL They both remain tense for a few 
moments,) 

Enter Parsons, 

Susan. Parsons^ will you please show Mr. Guildford 
the rooms? 

Parsons. Yes^ miss. {She opens door for Guildford, 
He hesitates for a moment and looks at Susan, who is 
looking away from him. Then he goes to door C, 
Exeunt Guildford and Parsons, Susan comes to writing- 
table, examines the drawing she has made, and laughs 
aloud. Suddenly she frowns, tears the pieces up very 
small and throws them into waste-paper basket. She 
affects to write letters.) 

Enter Guildford, comes down to back of sofa L,C, 

Guildford. The rooms are awfully jolly! Rippin' ! 
Such taste, too! Fresh flowers and everything. That 
Parsons is top-hole. I've taken 'em both. One will do 
for a dressing-room. 

Susan. My aunt will certainly^not take you in oppo- 
sition to your mother. 

Guildford {promptly), I've left mother — for the 
present at any rate. We're fond of each other and all 
that, but we don't think alike about many things. For 
instance, she wanted to stop me joining the Flying 
Corps? 



Act III The Saving Grace 85 

Susan (quickly and unguardedly). And you have? 

Guildford {glad to have her interest). Rather! 
This morning! I've to report at Brooklands to-morrow. 
(Susan has averted her face.) Mother barred the Fly- 
ing Corps. Said it was too dangerous for an only son. 
Wanted me to go into the regular army^ but fancy 
crawling like a worm in the trenches v/hen you can soar 
in the sky like an eagle. (Susan covers her face with 
her hands, unnoticed at the time by Guildford.) Mother 
thought she had me coerced on the money side^ but she 
didn't reckon on my natural intelligence. Perhaps she 
didn't know about it. It never occurred to her that I 
might have saved a bit of late out of my allowance. 
(Going below sofa,) I'll tell you something in confi- 
dence. When's the war's over I'm going in for finance. 
(He notices her attitude and goes towards her,) Why^ 
Susan^ what's the matter? 

Susan (looking up at him). Nothing — why? 
(Rising.) 

Guildford (confuse-d). Only that I — I thought — I 
hoped 

Susan. That I was crying about you like the others? 

Guildford (retreating and protesting), Now^ Susan! 

Susan. Does it please you to make girls cry^ Ripley 
Guildford? 

Guildford (incensed), Oh^ damn! 

Susan. Oh^ if only I could help to make you a good 
man! 

Guildford (eagerly). So you can. 

Susan. As your sister — an elder sister. . 

Guildford (disappointed). That's silly rot. You're 
much younger than I am. 

Susan (solemnly). Women are born ten years older 
than men. (With quiet authority.) Sit down, Ripley. 
There. (She points to sofa. He sits R, end of sofa. 
Do you ever think of how wicked you have been Ripley ? 
(She affects great severity.) 

Guildford (dejectedly). Yes. 



86 The Saving Grace Act III 

Susan. And of the girls you have made iinhappy? 

Guildford. Er — yes. 

Susan. Of the hearts you have broken? 

Guildford. Oh, come^ Susan ! 

Susan (sternlT/), Do you? (She sits on sofa.) 

Guildford (thinking it best to acquiesce). ' Yes. 

Susan. That girl you met at your London Club^ for 
instance — do you ever think of her.^ 

Guildford (meekly). Yes. No^ I'm damned if I do. 

Susan. Oh, Ripley — are you quite heartless? 

Guildford (defensively). No, I'm not. Now look 
here, Susan 

Susan (interrupting). Or of that other young per- 
son — that poor little thing who sold chocolates, and 
probably had sandy hair. Esther something 

Guildford (promptly). CXli, Emily Wells. 

Susan (passionately). How dare you! I don't 
want to hear her name! Everybody knows it — even 
Aimtie, and everybody seems to like to shout it! 

Guildford (humbly). I beg your pardon, Susan. 

Susan (most calmly). If you're obliged to mention 
it, why can't you do it simply and quietly — Emily Wells 
— like that. 

Guildford, I'll try and remember. (Slight pause.) 

Susan. Poor Emily was very fond of you, wasn't 
she? 

Guildford (with a touch of impatience.) Oh, it was 
all just silly. (Unseen she smiles on him.) 

Susan (getting closer to him). Wlien you used to 
go out together — after the shop was closed — used she to 
smooth your hair like — like this? (She illustrates on 
his hair.) 

Guildford (smiling). I — I can't remember. I sup- 
pose so. 

Susan. Or like this? (She suddenly roughs his hair 
over his forehead, and then sits back in her old place.) 

Guildford (stretching his arms out). Susan! 

Susan (raising her hand). No! (He sits back, dis- 






Act III The Saving Grace 87 

appointed.) If only you could realize how bad you 
are. 

Guildford (sadly, but to humor her). I do^ Susan. 

Susan. And repent? 

Guildford: I do. 

Susan (thoughtfully). Repentance is no use with- 
out atonement,, Ripley. 

Guildford. If you want me to atone, Susan^ why, 
damn it, I wilL 

Susan (gladly). You mean it? You are sincere.^ 
(He nods his head,) Then I have a splendid idea. 
Ripley, you shall marry Emily. 

Guildford (amazed). But, Susan ! 

Susan. Ssh! Don't interrupt! You shall marry 
Emily. I've set my heart on it, and, remember, I'm 
your elder sister. You owe it to her, Ripley, for you 
led her on. You acknowledged you allowed her to play 
with your hair. The truth is you compromised the poor 
girl, Ripley, and you must marry her. She's probably 
just as well educated as you are. I'm told those night 
schools are excellent institutions, and if her manners are 
a bit off you can teach her yours, or your mother might 
take her in hand. (Rising and crossing C.) As to her 
sandy hair, no doubt something might be arranged. 

Guildford (protesting). But she hasn't got sandy 
hair. 

Susan (losing enthusiasm). Oh, hasn't she? 

Guildford. No — it's blond. 

Susan (with studied indifference). No doubt you know 
best. I suppose when a girl strokes your hair, the proper 
answer is to 

Guildford (breahing in). And, anyway, she's mar- 
ried.) (Susan stops as one shot,) 

Susan (in a low, tense voice). Emily married? 

Guildford. Of course — six months ago. 

Susan (standing perfectly still, facing audience and 
smiling ecstatically). Dear Emily! 



88 The Saving Grace Act III 

Guildford. She married a clerk. 

Susan (the same). Dear clerk! 

Guildford. In the Co-Operative Stores ! 

Susan (the same). Dear Co-Operative Stores! 

Guildford (rising and going towards her). Why, 
Susan^ I believe you're glad. 

Susan. Yes^ I'm glad. I took quite — quite an interest 
in the poor little thing. You're sure she's really married. 

Guildford. Rather! I ought to know; I sent her a 
wedding present. (Pause, They look at each other,) 

Susan. Oh^ Ripley! 

Guildford (with a movement), Susan! 

Susan. You ought to have told me before about Emily 
— about dear Emily's marriage. 

Guildford. You didn't let me get a word in edgeways. 

Susan. Because then I mightn't have been so unkind^ 
for I really do love you, Ripley. 

Guildford (trembling with love). Susan! (Slight 
movement to her.) 

Susan (also trembling), Oh^ Ripley! (She moves 
back from him. He goes towards her open-armed. She 
falls back farther,) No^ don't come near me. Don't 
you dare touch me! I'm frightened of you! You're so 
strongs and so brave^ and you look so hungry, and you 
have such long arms! (She suddenly turns, and runs 
through the French window. Exit Susan,) 

Guildford. Susan ! (He runs after her. Exit Guild- 
ford.) 

Enter Parsons with tea-cloth and tray with tea-things, 
which she places on table C„ then goes to small table in 
zoindow R, and lays the cloth, 

A moment later enter Hogg, pantry door. He comes 
in rather furtively, carrying his hat in his hand, stands 
C, above table. Parsons having laid the cloth, turns and ^ 
sees Hogg, 

Hogg (thinking he's in for a scolding). Now, Parsons! 

Parsons. Now, William! (They stand looking at each 



Act III The Saving Grace 89 

other. Then she says with studied moderation.) I hope 
you enjoyed yourself in London. 

Hogg. Very much, thank you. 

Parsons. Where's Mr. Corbett ? 

Hogg. He's coming. I saw him at the station. {Slight 
pause. He clears his throat.) Parsons, I 

Parsons (moving to him). Explanations are unneces- 
sary, William. I know, and you know I know. {Coming 
right up to hin^ C. above table.) 

Hogg. Yes, I see you do, and if you're the woman I 
take you for, you don't disapprove. 

Parsons. I don't. I — I expected it. 

Hogg. Thank you, Parsons. 

Parsons. I think you might remember to-day of all 
days to call me Ada. 

Hogg. Sorry, Ada. 

Parsons. And if you feel like it you may kiss me. 
{He does so.) 

Hogg (holding her away and looking at her fondly). 
By George, Ada, I'll say this for you — you're a sport. 
(She gives him an eloquent look and he corrects himself.) 
You're a game one, and I'm proud of you. 

Parsons. What has to be has got to be. (Going to 
table C, picking up tea-tray and taking it to smalh 
table R.) 

Hogg. That's right — and mind, you mustn't blame 
the Gov'nor. He certainly put it up to me, but I had 
my convictions already. (Loftily.) A man has got to 
act up to his convictions. 

Parsons. They passed you all right? 

Hogg (with vanity and spreading his chest). Did 
they pass me? Why, when I was coming away a chap as 
big as a house — sergeant or something — slapped me on 
the back and said, "You're the sort we want !" 

Parsons (dryly). He would! 

Hogg. Ada, when I come back (He hesitates 

slightly; she looks at him.) 



90 



The Saving Grace 



Act III 



Parsons {steadilt/), 
(Coming back to Hogg,) 

Hogg (with a touch of swagger) 
ished off this little affair 



Yes— when you come back. 
When we've pol- 



Parsons (spreading the table-cloth). When will that 
be, William? 

Hogg (instinctively putting down his hat and helping 
her). Oh, in three or four months — six at most. 

Parsons. Well, what then? 

Hogg. You and I will slip quietly into a church one 
day and get married. 

Parsons. Why wait so long, William? 

Hogg (pausing to scratch his head). Well, now, that's 
an idea! 

Parsons. I'm full of ideas. 

Hogg. You're a wonder. 

Parsons. Don't soldiers' wives get allowances? I've 
heard rumors. 

Hogg. By George, Ada, you think of everything. 
You'll make me a grand little wife. 

Parsons. I'll try, William. (She takes his hat and 
exits, L. Hogg arranges things on the tea-table,) 

Enter Blinn by French windows. 

Blinn. Oh, you're here? (Coming C, close table,) 

Hogg (straightening himself). Yes, sir. (Turning 
from tea-table,) 

Blinn. Well? 

Hogg. It was all right, sir. 

Blinn. What was all right? 

Hogg. They passed me, sir. 

Blinn (who is in a rather bitter humor). Oh, they 
did, did they? 

Hogg (very pleased with himself). Yes, sir — it was 
quite easy — ^like shelling peas. 

Blinn (dryly). Really? (Slight pause,) What are 
you round the chest ? 

Hogg. Trifle over thirty-seven, sir. 

Blinn. Have you ever fired a gun in anger? 



Act III The Saving Grace 91 

Hogg. No, sir. 

Blinn. Or even in the way of kindness? 

Hogg. Not yet, sir. 

Blinn. Well, no doubt you'll make an excellent sol- 
dier. (Goes down L, below settee,) 

Hogg. Ill do my best, sir. 

Blinn. I'm sure of that, Hogg. 

Hogg {with a touch of vanity). There was a great 
big chap — color- sergeant or something — slapped me on 
the back and said, "You're the sort we want!" 

Blinn. Splendid! You had a regular send-off. 

Hogg. A little boy in the crowd outside wished me 
good luck. 

Blinn. That must have been the boy who shouted 
after me, **Bravo, old 'un !" 

Hogg (rather shocked). "Old'un*'? Cheek! 

Blinn. And it was probably your alleged color-ser- 
geant — he was a large, powerful person — who slapped 
me on the back and said, *Tity it hadn't been fifteen 
years ago." 

Hogg. Slapped you on the back ? 

Blinn. Heartily! 

Hogg. I call it a liberty. 

Blinn. Not at all, Hogg — we're all democrats now. 
It was only an assault. Give me a whisky and soda, 
please. (He goes L.) 

Hogg (goes to sideboard). But do you mean, sir, 
they've actually 

Blinn. Turned me down, yes. 

Hogg. Good God ! 

Blinn. Not too much soda. (Then with a sudden burst 
of passion.) Turned me down! Me! Damn them! Me! 
An old fighter! a kind of butcher. (He goes to Hogg.) 
See that chest ! Forty- four inches ! (Receives glass of 
whisky and soda from Hogg. Se takes the stage. ) 
Turned down just because I'm a paltry ten years older 
than you ! If they don't want a chest like that, what 
the hell do they want? (Comes down R, to fireplace.) 



92 The Saving Grace Act III 

Enter Mrs, Corbett by French window. She is wear- 
ing Susan's big garden hat. Blinn turns at the moment 
and faces her. His anger drops off like a cloak, and he 
smiles, 

Blinn. Hallo! 

Mrs. Corbett {smiling). Hallo! {At back of sofa.) 

Blinn. Hogg got through all right. 

Mrs. Corbett. I should think so. 

Blinn (rallying Hogg), What was it the man said to 
you^ Hogg — the big man. 

Hogg (embarrassed, but grinning). Quarter-master or 
something, ma'am. He said, "You're the sort we want!" 

Mrs. Corbett. I'm sure you are, Hogg. (Crossing to 
mirror,) 

Blinn. Well, now you know you're all right. 

Hogg. Thank you, sir. (Ea:it Hogg,) 

Blinn. Where did you get that hat? (At sideboard, 
having put down his tumbler,) 

Mrs. Corbett. It's Susan's. 

Blinn. Take it off. 

Mrs. Corbett (coquettishly). Why should I. (She 
glances in the mirror,) 1 think it suits me. 

Blinn. I want to see your face. 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh, I didn't know (Crosses to 

below sofa,) 

Blinn. What do you suppose I ran away with you 
for? 

Mrs. Corbett. There. (She takes off and puts hat 
on back of sofa R, end, sits on the sofa L. end,) 

Blinn (remains standing), I want you to be frank 
with me, Georgie. I don't want to be chaffed, or made 

fun of, or laughed at (Coming down to back of R. 

end of sofa,) 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh, Blinn, you know very well it's 
you who always 

Blinn (breaking in), I've been laughed at already, 
to-day. 

Mrs, Corbett (indignantly). Who would dare to? 



Act III The Saving Grace 93 

Blinn. I want the simple truth ! What do you think 
of me? 

Mrs. Corbett. Of course I think you're the most 
splendid man in - 

Blinn (breaking in). Yes, I know — ^but criticize me 
— damn it, criticize me — in detail. {Crossing C.) 

Mrs. Corbett. I — I simply can't. 

Blinn. Am I old.^ {Coming back to R, end of sofa.) 

Mrs. Corbett. No — certainly not. Of course you're 
not so young as you were 

Blinn. Well, who is? — tell me that. {Taking stage 
again,) 

Mrs. Corbett. Well, no one^ — naturally. 

Blinn. Am I fat? {Coming back to same position,) 

Mrs. Corbett. N-no. You're just right. I hate 
skinny men — so bad-tempered. The Colonel was skinny. 

Blinn. Then you think I'm all right? 

Mrs. Corbett {reassuringly/). Perfectly all right; 
dear. {He sits dejectedly beside her — she looks at him, 
then lays a hand timidly and sympathetically on his 
shoulder,) What's the matter, old man? 

Blinn. They've turned me down. 

Mrs. Corbett. Turned you down? They must be 
mad! 

Blinn. Thank you, Georgie. . . . Too old for the 
trenches. 

Mrs. Corbett {within her mind the telegram she has 
sent) , They'll come to their senses, you'll see. It's only 
because everything's so muddled. {Their eyes meet — 
hers are brimming over with love and sympathy,) 

Blinn. I know what you'd like. You'd like me to 
put my face in your lap and cry, just a little, so that you 
might make a fuss of me and console me. {She nods her 
head,) And perhaps I'd like it too ; but you know I can't 
do it because you know it's not my way. {She shakes her 
head, unable to speak,) That wouldn't be me, but an- 
other man, and you don't want another man, do you? 



94 The Saving Grace Act III 

Mrs. Corbett {vehemently and with emotion). Good 
God, no ! 

Blinn. But what perhaps you don*t know is that I*d 
rather have that look in your eyes than anything else in 
the whole world. {He kisses her and rises, goes C. He 
raises his voice cheerfully,) As for the war, I'm not 
done yet — not by any means. (Suddenly he stops, his 
face lights up, and he swings round,) Georgie, Georgie ! 
I have the idea. You inspired me — you always do. {He 
shouts excitedly.) Hogg! Hogg! {He hurries to the 
fireplace and touches the bell-push,) 

Mrs. Corbett. What are you going to do? 

Blinn. I'm going to join the Foreign Legion. 

Mrs. Corbett. But, darling, I've heard they're terri- 
ble people. {She secretly wipes her eyes,) 

Blinn. And I'm a terrible man. ^loody Blinn the 
chaps called me in Africa. 

Mrs. Corbett. I thought it was Fighting Blinn? 

Blinn. That was only the civilians. A 

Enter Hogg by door L, 

Hogg. Yes, sir? 

Blinn. I want you to pack my kit-bag. 

Hogg. Yes, sir. {Hogg exits L, Blinn continues to 
talk without waiting for Hogg's exit,) 

Blinn {coming R, of sofa and speaking rapidly). And 
now there's the money question. The only real trouble in 
this otherwise glorious existence is the money question. 
Well, again I've solved it. Have I ever failed? But this 
time you'll be grieved, for I've sold a cherished possession, 

Mrs. Corbett. Oh, Blinn! 

Blinn. You've guessed it. I knew you would. I've 
sold the portrait of my dear old father. {Mrs Corbett 
appears about to speak.) "Oh, but,** you say, "the old 
buck was already up the spout," to which I reply, "Too 
true, but I chanced on a man, a certain maker of muni- 
tions, who, naturally has money, but, unnaturally, no 
ancestor.'* {Mrs. Corbett smiles,) Well, observe me 
carefully shepherding the M.M. to the little house of 



Act III The Saving Grace 95 

financial accommodation off Regent Street, and mark the 
M.M. standing open-mouthed and craven under the hos- 
tile stare of the old *un ! 

Mrs. Corbett (pleased). Well? 

Blinn. Well_, the negotiations opened by our muni- 
tional comrade offering me five pounds for the ticket. I 
think it was less my dear old dad's face than his hunting- 
jacket that attracted him. 

Mrs. Corbett. Five pounds isn't much^ but still 

Blinn (breaJcing in), I, too^ thought it rather con- 
servative, so I promptly sprang a hundred on him. 

Mrs. Corbett (disappointed). Oh, then, of course, 
he refused. 

Blinn (breaking in). Patience, my love! To cut 
short the story of one of the most interesting deals in 
which I've ever taken part, we closed at forty-five. 
(Moving C.) 

Mrs. Corbett (clapping her hands). Forty-five! 
Forty-five! (Rising and going to him,) 

Blinn. Forty-five golden (He puts his hand to 

the wrong watch-pocket and his face falls. He then suc- 
cessfully tries the other watch-pocket and smiles as he 
withdraws a roll of notes.) Forty-five paper sovereigns ! 
*'Ah, but," you say, *'where do I come in?'* (He goes to 
writing-table.) To which I reply by placing thirty 
pounds for housekeeping purposes and a new hat into this 
drawer (action as indicated), the balance I thrust with 
a fine carelessness into the right-hand pocket of my trous- 
ers — it will serve to get me to Paris, with incidentals 

Mrs. Corbett (who has fallen into a thoughtful mood. 
She is a little down stage, while he is still at the writ- 
ing-table.) Of course I'm glad — ^but doesn't it seem — a 
little — unfilial ? 

Blinn. Courage little one! (He goes to her and 
passes his arm round her.) The picture is an in- 
different copy of the original which scowls over the man- 
telpiece in my eldest brother's dining-room. (She looks 
up at him with a relieved and sunny smile.) 



96 The Saving Grace Act III 

Enter Parsons hy door C. 

Parsons. Mrs. Guildford has called, ma'am. 

Blinn. Mrs. Guildford! How kind! (Mrs. Corbett 
makes for the French window.^ Where are you going .^ 

Mrs. Corbett. Out! I really couldn't see her — not 
after last night. 

Blinn (giving her Susan's big hat). Better have your 

/hat, darling. It may rain. (Mrs. Corbett takes the hat 

and exits quickly. Blinn nods to Parsons.) Yes, in 

here. (Exit Parsons. Blinn takes a position below settee. 

The door is opened by Parsons from without.) 

Enter Parsons. She stands aside for Mrs. Guildford. 

Enter Mrs. Guildford. Exit Parsons, closing the door. 

Blinn (courteously). Good afternoon. {Blinn goes 
C. above table to meet her.) 

Mrs. Guildford. Good afternoon. (They both hesi- 
tate about a handshake — and there is a moment's confu- 
sion. Then Blinn offers his hand very frankly.) 

Blinn. It was kind of you to call. 

Mrs. Guildford (looking him in the face while taking 
his hand). Not at all. I called about my own affairs. 
It's best to be frank, isn't it } 

Blinn. Always. Frankness with me is a passion. 
Do sit down. (Pointing to chair R. of table.) 

Mrs. Guildford (coming down R.C.). No, thank you. 
I shan't take up more than a moment of your time, and 
I'd rather stand. (Slight pause.) Mr. Corbett, my son 
has joined the Flying Corps. 

Blinn. I congratulate you. He's a fine lad. (Stand- 
ing by chair L. of table.) 

Mrs. Guildford. He did so against my wishes. I 
was prepared for his joining the Army — I expected it — 
even wished it. But — ^but — the Flying Corps is the most 
dangerous of the services, and Ripley is an only child. ^ 

Blinn (gently). Yes, I know. 

Mrs. Guildford (with a touch of emotion), I — I love 
my boy. 



Act III The Saving Grace 97 

Blinn. I have never doubted that you're human. 

Mrs. Guildford. Others have — perhaps he has. I'm 
not very demonstrative — but now it seems I'm to lose nim 
doubly. {Tears come to her eyes. She moves towards 
the window R, and uses her handkerchief.) 

Blinn. I'm really awfully sorry. Please don't cry^ 
or you'll start me^ and that would be a horrible sight. 

Mrs. Guildford (controls herself and looks round on 
him proudly.) I never cry! 

Blinn. I'ni awfully glad. 

Mrs. Guildford (coming down to him after secretly 
wiping her eyes). Bipley has left me. 

Blinn. Oh! 

Mrs. Guildford. We differed^ not only about the Fly- 
ing Corps^ but about your niece. He simply packed up 
his things and left. 

Blinn. There's a young rascal for you! 

Mrs. Guildford. Please take me seriously. I'm in 
deep distress. 

Blinn. Dear lady, I assure you I'm simply brimming 
over with sympathy — but what can I do? 

Mrs. Guildford. Give me back my son. 

Blinn. But I haven't got the young fellow. 

Mrs. Guildford. He is here! 

Blinn. Here? Do sit down, and we'll talk it over 
quietly, reasonably, like old — old (He hesitates.) 

Mrs. Guildford (looking him in the face). Friends? 

Blinn. Yes — friends. It's a beautiful word. (She 
sits on chair R. of table.) What makes you think he's 
here? 

Mrs. Guildford. I have seen him. 

Blinn. Where? (He sits on chair L. of table.) 

Mrs. Guildford. On the — (She corrects herself.) 
He's playing croquet. 

Blinn (with gentle insistence). On the croquet lawn? 

Mrs. Guildford (looking at him with a half -smile). 
Yes. 

Blinn. Alone? 



98 The Saving Grace Act III 

Mrs. Guildford. No, with your wife's niece. 

Blinn. Let's call her Susan — she's only a girl. 

Mrs. Guildford. Certainly, if you prefer it, 

Blinn. How came you to see them? The croquet 
lawn is at the bottom of the garden. 

Mrs. Guildford. I heard the clicking of the balls, 
and followed the sound. 

Blinn. Did they see you? 

Mrs. Guildford. No, I was concealed from view by 
the — ^the (^She hesitates.) 

Blinn {encouragingly). Trees? 

Mrs. Guildford. That sort of thing — small ones. 

Blinn. Shrubs, perhaps? 

Mrs. Guildford. One might say so. 

Blinn {gladly). Why, I know where you were. You 
were in the shrubbery! {Their eyes meet. He laughs — 
she can*t resist laughing too, hut only for a moment.) 

Mrs. Guildford. You really are the oddest person. 
Very well, then, I saw Ripley and your — {corrects her- 
self) — and Susan from the shrubbery. {She emphasizes 
the word.) In the intervals of playing croquet they 
were holding hands. . . . Can't you understand how I 
feel about it? This morning Ripley parted from his 
mother in anger, and this afternoon he — ^he 

Blinn. He's having a good time. 

Mrs. Guildford {with great vexation). Between you 
all youVe bewitched the boy, and I'm a failure, 

Blinn. Shall I chase the little devil off the premises? 

Mrs. Guildford. Don't talk nonsense. You know 
very well he'd return to-morrow. 

Blinn. Probably, directly my back is turned. Be- 
tween you and I — {corrects himself) — ^between you and 
me — which is it? 

Mrs. Guildford. You and me. ^ 

Blinn. I thought you*d know ! Between you and my- 
self I'm off to join the Foreign Legion to-morrow. 

Mrs. Guiw>roRD. Oh, then it's as will I called to-day. 



Act III 



The Saving Grace 



99 



Mr. Corbett, I know I may appeal to you as an officer 
and a gentleman 

Blinn. I ceased to be an officer years ago, and we're 
all gentlemen nowadays. 

Mrs. Guildford. I know all about you. I made use 
of my telephone this morning. 

Blinn. The resources of civilization are inexhaust- 
ible. 

Mrs. Guildford. And I know you're one of the Shrop- 
shire Corbetts, who have been on their own land for 
centuries. 

Blinn. God knows how they got it, but I admit 
they've hung oh. 

Mrs. Guildford. And are reputed to have come over 
with the Conqueror. 

Blinn. My family have always been careful to be on 
the winning side. That's why I'm now a democrat. 

Mrs. Guildford. You must forgive my saying so, but 
you really are an awful humbug ! 

Blinn. Dear lady, you see before you only a simple- 
minded old war-dog, covered with scars and in patient 
search of more. {Mrs, Guildford looks at him and then 
laughs merrily and quite naturally.) 

Mrs. Guildford. I insist you're an awful humbug — 
but a very delightful one. 

Blinn. Are you aware you're saying nice things 
to me? 

Mrs. Guildford. Yes. 

Blinn. Is it because I'm a Shropshire Corbett or a 
democrat ? 

Mrs. Guildford. Both, perhaps. 

Blinn (sitting up and looking at her). I know what 
you're doing. You're at woman's old and favorite pas- 
time. 

Mrs. Guildford. What's that? 

Blinn. Twisting a man round her little finger. 

Mrs. Guildford. Nonsense. You would be too difficult. 

Blinn (rises, hacking, and pointing his finger at her). 



100 The Saving Grace Act III 

You know you've made up your mind; but you want me 
to build a bridge for your pride. You want me to say, 
''Give the girl the boy" — but I shan't. I said it once. 
It's your turn. 

Mrs. Guildford (^rises and faces him). Give the boy 
the girl. 

Blinn. I'd like to — ^but she's not mine^ she's my 
wife's. 

Mrs. Guildford (a little disappointed). Oh, yes/of 
course. {Moving a step down R,) 

Blinn. She's her niece, and it was she who brought 
her up so beautifully — I repeat, so beautifully. 

Mrs. Guildford. Oh, yes — I admit — quite beauti- 
fully. But, naturally, a word from you 

Blinn (exclaiming) , Oh, believe me, I don't count at 
all. That small wife of mine started twisting me round 
her little iSnger sixteen years ago and I've been on the 
wriggle ever since. You must get hold of her (Go- 
ing L. below sofa,) 

Enter Mrs, Corhett by French window. Seeing Mrs. 
Guildford is still there, Mrs. Corbett turns to make her 
escape. 

Blisn (raises his voice). Hi! Georgie! Comeback, 
darling. Dear Mrs. Guildford is here, 

Mrs. Corbett (returning). I beg your pardon^ (She 
comes down B.C. to Mrs. Guildford.) How do you do? 
(She inclines her head but does not offer her hand.) 

Mrs. Guildford (going to her with great cordiality). 
Dear Mrs. Corbett, I'm afraid you'll think me rather an 
intruder. (She franhly offers her hand, which Mrs. Cor- 
hett accepts.) The truth is, I'm extremely anxious to 
efface the disagreeable impression I fear I made on you 
last night. (She speaJcs quickly but very clearly. Blinn 
goes quietly behind his wife and takes off the big hat she 
is again wearing. He goes with it to sideboard. Mrs. 
Corbett takes no notice of the action concept to put up 
her hand to feel that her hair is tidy.) You must have 



Act III The Saving Grace 101 

thought me a kind of she-bear — or even a she a she- 
cat! 

Mrs. Corbett (with dignity) . Please don't mention it. 

Mrs. Guildford. I'm sure youll be very kind and 
attribute the irritation of the woman to the anxiety of 
the mother. Ripley 

Mrs. Corbett (interrupting firmly). He is a dear 
good boy. 

Mrs. GuiLEtFORD (smiling). He is indeed. I've just 
been watching him on the croquet lawn with your niece — 
(correcting herself) — with Susan. I had an excellent 
view of them from the shrubbery. (She gives the word 
due importance, Mrs, Corbett can't suppress a smile of 
gratification, Blinn from well up L,C, listens to this 
with considerable satisfaction and amusement,) They 
looked such a pair of dears, I v/as quite moved. They 
were obviously made for each other, and we older ones 
mustn't stand in their way, must we? I do hope you 
agree and will give that charming and beautifully 
brought up girl to my boy. (Susan and Guildford 
appear at French window,) 

Mrs. Corbett (who is now wreathed in smiles) , Oh, 
yes, I wouldn't stand in their way for anything in the 
whole world, (She is deeply sincere.) Dear Mrs. Guild- 
ford, love counts above all else, don't you think? 

Enter Parsons with tea-pot, which she places on tea- 
table, 

Mrs. Corbett. Let me give you a cup of tea. (Ewit 
Parsons, L, Mrs, Corbett takes Mrs, Guildford up, as 
Blinn, seeing Ripley and Susan at zaindow, beckons 
them to come in. They enter the room and stand rather 
nervously near the window, Mrs, Guildford stops while 
Mrs. Corbett goes on to tea-table.) 

Mrs. Guildford (with her best smile). Come here, 
you two! (They come closer, stop, and stand before her 
below table C) You certainly do make rather a hand- 
some couple. (She looks from one to the other, then lays 
a hand on the shoulder of each.) Dear Ripley! Dear 



102 The Saving Grace Act III 

Susan! {With an arm round each she kisses them, then 
joins Mrs. Corbett with Ripley at tea-table. The eyes of 
Blinn and Susan meet. They smile at each other — Susan 
runs up L,C, and jumps into his arms.) 

Susan. Nunkie! {They sway in a long embrace.^ 

Blinn {aside to her). IVe sold it. 

Susan {innocently). What? 

Blinn. The portrait of my dear old father. {She 
laughs and playfully pushes him away,) 

Enter Hogg by door C. 

Hogg {to Blinn). A telegram for you^ sir. 

Blinn. A telegram! I hate telegrams! I had one 
yesterday. They frighten me. Open it^ Susan. {Hands 
it to her.) 

Susan. No^ thank you^ Nunkie — they frighten me, too. 

Blinn. Well^ give it to your Aunt Georgie. 

Mrs. Corbett {who is pouring tea). Certainly not. 
I shan't have anything to do with it. Besides, I'm busy. 
{Susan hesitates, holding the telegram gingerly. She 
and Mrs. Corbett exchange glances.) 

Hogg. Is there any answer, sir? {He is above 
Blinn L.) 

Blinn {irritably). How can I say if there's an an- 
swer when I don't know what's in the beastly thing. . . . 
Is there any one here who isn't frightened of telegrams ? 

Guildford. Mother isn't. Mother isn't frightened of 
anything. {Susan hands him the telegram and he hands 
it to his mother.) 

Blinn. Please, Mrs. Guildford. 

Mrs. Guildford. But it may be of a private nature. 

Blinn. We have no secrets from you now, dearest 
Mrs. Guildford. {She looks up, comes down R.C., smiles 
at him, then opens telegram and reads.) 

Mrs. Guildford {reading). **Captain Blinn Corbett, v 
Minford. Orders are being sent to you to proceed to join 
your reserve battalion on the 10th. So glad you have got 
back. Come and see me before you go. Faber." {She 
loohs up. They are all looking at Blinn. Susan and 



Act III The Saving Grace 103 

Mrs. Corbett have clutched hands nervously. Hogg, who 
is L. at the back, is obviously delighted. Slight pause. 
They all continue to look at Blinn, He comes to back of 
table, holds out his hand. Mrs. Guildford hands him tele- 
gram. He reads it and walks a little L. They all watch 
him till he speaks.^ 

Blinn (with a sigh of pleasure). They couldn't do 
without me after all. (Slight pause, he drops his voice,) 
Dear old sports ! (Going down L. Exit Hogg L.) 

Mrs. Corbett. Of course they couldn't^ dear. (Susan 
puts her hand affectionately for a moment on Mrs. Cor- 
betfs shoulder. Mrs, Corbett looks up and smiles at her 
knowingly. Susan and Ripley go to French window. 
Mrs. Corbett goes to Mrs. Guildford, who is still R.C.) 
I must tell you^ Mrs. Guildford, my husband is a great 

soldier. In Africa they called him (She whispers 

in Mrs. Guildford's ear, Mrs. Guildford laughs and they 
go up R. together to tea-table,) 

Blinn (during speech he crosses to arm-chair by fire 
and sits). Many another man would have hung about 
the War Office, bothering people and working up the 
affair into a grievance. Just as if in this world anybody 
was ever attracted by a man with a grievance. No! 
Not I ! (He corrects himself.) Not me ! I remained 
absolutely composed and — well — you see the result! 
(Mrs. Guildford joins Susan and Ripley by French win- 
dow,) The great thing on all occasions is to keep your 
composure. (He is not looking at the others, who are 
busy talking. Blinn raises his voice.) I said the great 
thing is to keep your composure. (Slight pause. Mrs. 
Guildford, Susan, and Ripley are too interested in them- 
selves to attend — Mrs, Corbett comes down back of 
Blinn's chair, unseen by him, carrying a cup of tea for 
him. In despair Blinn speaks to the universe,) No one 
listens ! No one cares ! 

Mrs. Corbett (beside Blinn*s chair L,). I listen, 
dearest ! I care ! (She hands him, the tea and sinks on 
her knees beside his chair.) 



104 The Saving Grace Act III 

Blinn. Yes, but you don't count. 
Mrs. Corbett (a hand on his shoulder). Oh, Blinn! 
Blinn. No — because you are me. {She smiles at him 
^beautifully, then he turns his eyes from her and looks in 
front of him doubtfully.) Or is it I ? 

Curtain. 



END of the play. 



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